Question

In a Grignard reaction, why should all glassware and reagents be dry?

a) To prevent contamination
b) To avoid explosive reactions
c) Moisture can hinder the reaction
d) To maintain clarity of the reaction

Answer 1

In a Grignard reaction, glassware and reagents must be dry because moisture can react with Grignard reagents, rendering them unreactive for the intended chemical reaction.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a Grignard reaction, all glassware and reagents must be dry because moisture can hinder the reaction. Grignard reagents are highly reactive with water, where they will react to form hydrocarbons and thus be unavailable to react with the desired carbonyl compound. Keeping the system anhydrous ensures that the Grignard reagent remains reactive and the reaction can proceed efficiently.