Write Finkelstein Reaction (Halogen Exchange)

Answer

### Step-by-Step Text Solution for Finkelstein Reaction (Halogen Exchange)

**Step 1: Understanding the Finkelstein Reaction**
The Finkelstein reaction is a type of nucleophilic substitution reaction, specifically an SN2 reaction. It involves the exchange of one halogen atom for another.

**Hint:** Remember that SN2 reactions involve a nucleophile attacking an electrophile, leading to the substitution of one group for another.

---

**Step 2: Identifying the Reactants**
In the Finkelstein reaction, we typically start with an alkyl halide (R-X), where X is a halogen (such as Cl, Br, or I). We will also need sodium iodide (NaI) as a reagent.

**Hint:** The alkyl halide can be any organic compound where a halogen is attached to a carbon atom.

---

**Step 3: The Reaction Mechanism**
When sodium iodide (NaI) is introduced to the alkyl halide (R-X), the iodide ion (I⁻) acts as a nucleophile. It attacks the carbon atom that is bonded to the halogen (X), resulting in the displacement of the halogen atom.

**Hint:** Focus on the nucleophile (I⁻) attacking the carbon atom and displacing the leaving group (X).

---

**Step 4: Formation of Products**
As a result of the nucleophilic attack, the product formed is an alkyl iodide (R-I) and sodium halide (NaX), where X is the halogen that was replaced.

**Hint:** The products of the reaction are R-I (the new alkyl halide) and NaX (the sodium salt of the halogen).

---

**Step 5: Writing the Overall Reaction**
The overall reaction can be summarized as follows:
\[ R-X + NaI \rightarrow R-I + NaX \]

**Hint:** Ensure you balance the equation, keeping in mind that one halogen is replaced by another.

---

### Summary of the Finkelstein Reaction
The Finkelstein reaction is a useful method for halogen exchange, particularly for converting alkyl chlorides or bromides into iodides using sodium iodide.