Service
Principle
Unlike the other alkali-organyls, lithium organyls - with the
exception of methyllithium - show a stronger covalent behaviour.
They dissolve rather well in organic solvents, such as diethyl
ether, tetrahydrofuran, and alkanes, and they are relatively stable
in these solvents.
Wurtz synthesis was developed in 1854 for the preparation of higher
alkanes based on haloalkanes. Alkyl iodides react the easiest. The
reaction can be controlled best with lithium, since the other
alkali metals react much more violently. Wurtz synthesis is often a
side reaction that occurs during organometallic conversions.
Benefits
- Didactically demonstrative laboratory gasometer
- Secure connection of the items by GL screw joint system
Tasks
Investigate the reaction of ethyl iodide with lithium and the following reaction of ethyllithium with ethyl iodide.
Learning objectives
- Alkali-organyls
- Lithium organyls
- Wurtz synthesis
- Organometallic compounds
Necessary accessories
- Precision balance 620g/0.001g
