free radical substitution and love relationshipWednesday, January 24, 2007
i was studying the reaction mechanism, free radical substitution (FRS), for alkanes until a novelty struck me! Why not draw parallel examples that resemble such a reaction so that I can have a better time remembering this? So, here goes:
Initiation Step of FRS:
In the presence of sunlight, the chlorine molecule undergoes homolytic fission, forming a free radical. Free radical are species with an electron and therefore are very reactive.
Initiation (of break-up) Step of <3 relationship:
In the presence of heated argument of conflict of interests, couples undergoes homolytic fission, each taking their hearts back from the relationship, and breaking the bond that once kept them close. Since they are emotionally unstable at this point, they readily interact with friends, seeking comfort, security and consolation.
Propagation Stepof FRS:
The chlorine free radical abstracts a hydrogen from a molecule, forming carbon-halogen bond. Another chlorine free radical is produced.
Propagation Step of <3 relationship:
The heartbroken person finds a close friend to confide his/her sorrows. Comforting consolation words from his/her friend warms his/her heart, and for once, the heartbroken person finds life meaningful again, and in the process, forms a stronger bond with his/her friend. Meanwhile, the friend may become gloomy after hearing the sad story and may confide in another friend, thus continuing the reaction.
Termination Step of FRS:
The reaction is slowed once two radicals combine to form a stable product, without producing another free radical to continue the reaction.
Termination Step of <3 relationship:
The heartbroken person, after being comforted, becomes emotionally stable again, and thus discontinuing this reaction.
WOW! what a great way of remembering FRS. (:
