Peroxide plays a vital role in producing

Options

A. carbocation
B. carboanion
C. free radical
D. carbene

Answer

To solve the question regarding the role of peroxides in producing certain intermediates, we will follow a systematic approach:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Define Peroxide**:
- A peroxide is a compound that contains a peroxide linkage (–O–O–) where each oxygen has an oxidation state of -1.

2. **Example of a Peroxide**:
- One common example of a peroxide is benzoyl peroxide, which has the structure C6H5–C(=O)–O–O–C(=O)–C6H5. This compound has a peroxide bond that can undergo cleavage.

3. **Cleavage of Peroxide**:
- When benzoyl peroxide undergoes homolytic cleavage, it breaks the O–O bond, resulting in the formation of free radicals. This process generates two benzoyloxy free radicals (C6H5–C(=O)–O•).

4. **Formation of Free Radicals**:
- The benzoyloxy free radicals can further decompose to produce phenyl free radicals (C6H5•) and other reactive species. This is a key step in the radical formation process.

5. **Reactivity of Free Radicals**:
- The phenyl free radicals can react with other compounds, such as alkanes (e.g., ethane), leading to additional radical formation. This reaction involves the free radical attacking the C–H bond of the alkane, resulting in the formation of new radicals.

6. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, peroxides play a vital role in producing free radicals, which are important intermediates in various chemical reactions.

### Final Answer:
Peroxide plays a vital role in producing **free radicals**.

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