QUESTION
What is the role of the AlCl3 and FeBr3 catalysts used in the procedures for Friedel-Crafts alkylation and aromatic halogenation reactions
Aluminum chloride is a strong Lewis acid. Its most commonly used as a catalyst for the halogenation (especially chlorination) of aromatic groups, as well as in the Friedel Crafts reaction. Iron chloride (FeCl3) is another reagent which performs many of the same reactions as AlCl3. In addition AlCl3 has essentially the same mode of action as¦
AlBr3 and FeBr3. AlCl3 (and other Lewis acids like it) will coordinate to halogens, and facilitate the breaking of these bonds. In doing so, it increases the electrophilicity of its binding partner, making it much more reactive.
ANSWER:
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