Question

Heterolytic fission of C — Br bond results in the formation of
A. Free radicals
B. Cations
C. Anions
D. Carbocation and anion

Answer 1

Hint: Heterolytic fission produces two particles which are different because one is a positive ion and the other a negative ion. On the basis of the electronegativity differences of the two elements mentioned in the question, we can predict the products.

Complete step-by-step answer:
Due to the difference in the electronegativities of C and Br heterolytic fission will result in the formation of a positively and negatively charged ion. Br being more electronegative shifts the bond pair of electrons towards itself and on breaking of bond it takes away the bond pair of electrons and requires a negative charge. Thus forming an anion. Whereas C being less electronegative than Br loses the pair of electrons and acquires a positive charge. Thus forming a carbocation.

Therefore the correct option is Option D.

Additional Information:
Heterolytic fission is favoured when bonding atoms and electronegativity differences and the presence of polar solvents at low temperature.
Heterolytic fission is a process of cleaving a covalent bond where one previously bonded species takes both original bonding electrons from the other species.

Note: The electronegativity of carbon or C is 2.55. The electronegativity of bromine or Br is 2.96.
The C — Br bond is not just an ionic bond but it also has some small charges associated with it. Since the electronegativity difference is more than 0.5, the bond is polar covalent.