The Grignard reaction is an organometallic chemical reaction in which, according to the classical definition, carbon alkyl, allyl, vinyl, or aryl magnesium halides are added to the carbonyl groups of either an aldehyde or ketone under anhydrous conditions. This reaction is important for the formation of carbon–carbon bonds.
A solution of a carbonyl compound is added to a Grignard reagent. (See gallery)
Grignard reagents or Grignard compounds are chemical compounds with the general formula R−Mg−X, where X is a halogen and R is an organic group, normally an alkyl or aryl. Two typical examples are methylmagnesium chloride Cl−Mg−CH3 and phenylmagnesium bromide (C6H5)−Mg−Br. They are a subclass of the organomagnesium compounds.
Magnesium turnings are placed in a flask.
Tetrahydrofuran and a small piece of iodine are added.
A solution of alkyl bromide is added while heating.
After completion of the addition, the mixture is heated for a while.