haloalkane Organic chemical compound consisting of an alkane in which one or more hydrogen atoms have been substituted by a halogen element. Haloalkanes, also known as alkyl halides, are used as solvents and in organic synthesis. Examples include iodomethane (methyl iodide, CH3I), dibromomethane (methylene bromide, CH2Br2), trichloromethane (CHCl3, chloroform), and tetrachloromethane (carbon tatrachloride, CCl4). Haloalkanes are made by halogenating an alcohol or by the direct reaction between a halogen and an alkane in ultraviolet light. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are haloalkanes. Related category • ORGANIC CHEMISTRY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |