Final answer:
Zaitsev's Rule is a principle that predicts the major product of a reaction involving the elimination of a leaving group. It states that the most substituted alkene will be favored. This rule applies to E1 and E2 elimination reactions but not to reactions with primary alkyl halides or strong steric hindrance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Zaitsev's Rule states that in a chemical reaction, the major product of a elimination reaction is the alkene with the most substituted double bond. It applies specifically to reactions involving the removal of a leaving group (such as a halide or a proton) from a substrate.
For example, in the reaction between a tertiary alkyl halide and a base, Zaitsev's Rule predicts that the major product will be the alkene with the most alkyl groups attached to its double bond. This is because the transition state leading to the most substituted alkene is more stable and therefore favored in the reaction.
Zaitsev's Rule applies to reactions such as E1 and E2 eliminations, where a leaving group is eliminated to form a double bond. It does not apply to reactions involving primary alkyl halides or when steric hindrance is significant, as these factors can override the influence of Zaitsev's Rule.