Final answer:
Markovnikov's rule is a principle that helps predict the regioselectivity of electrophilic addition reactions with alkenes. According to this rule, in an asymmetrical alkene, the electrophile will add to the carbon atom with fewer hydrogen atoms, while the other carbon atom receives the hydrogen atom.
Step-by-step explanation:
Markovnikov's rule is a principle that helps predict the regioselectivity of electrophilic addition reactions with alkenes. According to this rule, in an asymmetrical alkene, the electrophile will add to the carbon atom with fewer hydrogen atoms, while the other carbon atom receives the hydrogen atom.
This results in the formation of a more stable carbocation intermediate. For example, in the addition of HCl to propene, the chlorine atom adds to the carbon atom with fewer hydrogen atoms, resulting in the formation of 2-chloropropane.