Wurtz reaction: alkyl halide coupling with sodium metal (2 R–X + 2 Na → R–R + 2 NaX)
jee-mainjee-advancedneet-ug
2 R–X + 2 Na → R–R + 2 NaX
What each symbol means
| Symbol | What it stands for |
|---|---|
| R–R | Symmetric alkane (larger chain from two identical R groups) |
| R–X | Alkyl halide (X = Cl, Br, I; often uses dry ether) |
When to use this
Dry ether, Na metal; free-radical/organosodium pathway at surface. Best for 1° alkyl halides; 3° often gives elimination. Mixed coupling (two different R) gives statistical mixture — not selective.