Question

In the presence of peroxide, $HCl$ and $HF$ do not give anit-Markovnikov's addition to alkenes because:

• A. $HF$ and $HCl$ bond cannot be cleaved by free radical
• B. Both $HCl$ and $HF$ are strong acids
• C. $HCl$ is oxidizing and the $HF$ is reducing
• D. All the steps are exothermic in $HCl$ and $HF$

Answer 1

The correct option is A $HF$ and $HCl$ bond cannot be cleaved by free radical

HBr addition to alkene, in the presence of peroxide, takes place through free radical mechanism.

$HF$ and $HCl$ bond can not be cleaved by free radical. So, in the presence of peroxide, $HCl$ and $HF$ do not give anit-Markovnikov's addition to alkenes.

Hence, option (a) is the correct answer.