Haloalkane: Halogen exchange reaction

Halogen exchange reaction

(1) Finkelstein reaction

(2) Swarts reaction

(1) Finkelstein reaction

Alkyl iodides are prepared by the reaction of alkyl chlorides/bromides with NaI in dry acetone. This reaction is known as finkelstein reaction.

NaCl or NaBr formed is then precipitated in dry acetone. It facilitates the forward reaction according to Lechatlier's principle.

(2) Swarts reaction

Alkyl fluorides can be prepared from suitable alkyl chlorides/ bromides by heating with certain inorganic fluorides such as Hg2F2, AgF, CoF2, or SbF3. This action is called swarts reaction.