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CHM 102 Practice Questions Objective Question
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Question

What purpose does FeCl3 serve in the electrophilic aromatic substitution reaction between chlorine and benzene?
Options
A It serves as a radical initiator to produce the chlorine radical needed to propagate the chain reaction.
B It functions by destabilizing the carbocationic intermediate and thereby increases the rate of H+ loss.
C It serves as a Lewis base catalyst by reacting with Cl2 to generate chloride ions.
D It serves as a Lewis acid catalyst by reacting with the Cl2 and thereby activates it toward attack by benzene's π electrons.
Correct Answer
Correct Answer

Option D is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

FeCl3 acts as a Lewis acid catalyst in the chlorination of benzene. It reacts with Cl2 to form Cl+ (or a complex that is a better electrophile), which is then attacked by benzene's π electrons.

Hint

What is the role of FeCl3 in chlorination?

Question Info

Course: CHM 102
Topic: Practice Questions
Type: Objective
Difficulty: Not specified
Question 1641 of 1999
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