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Hydrocarbons

Question
CBSEENCH11007671

How is iodination of alkane shifted in the forward direction?

Solution

Iodination is extremely slow and reversible in nature.
 
CH subscript 4 space plus space straight I subscript 2 space rightwards harpoon over leftwards harpoon space space space CH subscript 3 space plus space HI
HI is a strong reducing agent and converts methyl iodide back to methane. In order to carry out the reaction in the forward direction. HI is destroyed with the help of an oxidising agent like iodic acid (HIO3), concentrated. HNO3 or mercuric oxide (HgO).
5 HI space plus space HIO subscript 3 space space rightwards arrow space space 3 straight I subscript 2 space plus space 3 straight H subscript 2 straight O