Question

Which of the following is a free radical?

• A. $C{H}_3-\stackrel{\oplus }{C}{H}_2$
• B. $C{H}_3-\stackrel{\ominus }{C}{H}_2$
• C. $C_6{H}_5-\stackrel{\bullet }{C}{H}_2$
• D. None of these

Answer 1

The correct option is C

$C_6{H}_5-\stackrel{\bullet }{C}{H}_2$

Since, free radicals are odd electron species, there will be one electron which will be unpaired or not bonded.

$\to$ Free radicals are a result of homolytic fission.

$\to$ These are represented by a $(\bullet )$ on the intermediate.

Therefore, $C_6{H}_5-\stackrel{\bullet }{C}{H}_2$ is a radical.