Chemistry A-Level
Friedel–Crafts alkylation
What Friedel–Crafts alkylation means in Chemistry A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Friedel–Crafts alkylation
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Friedel–Crafts alkylation in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
A haloalkane with a halogen carrier generates an electrophile, here a carbocation, which attacks the electron-rich ring to give an alkyl substituent.
Topics that use Friedel–Crafts alkylation
- Aromatic compounds (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Activating and 2,4-directing effect of the –OH group
- Bond lengths in benzene
- Carbon–carbon bond formation in synthesis
- Comparison with carboxylic acids and the carbonate test
- Delocalised π system and electron density
- Delocalised π system in benzene
- Directing effects
- Directing effects of OH, NH₂ and NO₂
Using Friedel–Crafts alkylation in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Chemistry questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Chemistry A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge