Wurtz reaction fails in case of tert-alkyl halides. Why?

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Solution

Wurtz reaction is an example for substitution reaction.
Where ever substitution happens , there are almost equal chances for elimination reaction to happen. The order reactivity of alkyl halides is 3°>2°>1°. Thus 3° being more prone to elimination.It undergo elimination rather than substitution(wurtz reaction) in presence of strong base i.e; Na metal. So unwanted product that is alkene is formed.

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