Grignard reagent, any of numerous organic derivatives of magnesium (Mg) commonly represented by the general formula RMgX (in which R is a hydrocarbon radical: CH3, C2H5, C6H5, etc.; and X is a halogen atom, usually chlorine, bromine, or iodine).
What is Grignard reagent with example?
One such example is the Grignard reagent, represented as R—Mg—X, which can be prepared from haloalkanes as well as from aryl halides. The oxygen atom of diethyl ether (or THF) forms a complex with the magnesium atom of the Grignard reagent. These reagents in ether solution are very usefUl in organic synthesis.
How do you make a Grignard reagent?
Grignard reagents are made by adding the halogenoalkane to small bits of magnesium in a flask containing ethoxyethane (commonly called diethyl ether or just "ether"). The flask is fitted with a reflux condenser, and the mixture is warmed over a water bath for 20 - 30 minutes.
