Question

What is Kolbe’s Electrolytic Method?

Answer

Kolbe's electrolytic method is a carbon-carbon bond forming reaction that is used to synthesize carboxylic acids from alkyl halides. The reaction involves the electrolysis of an alkyl halide in the presence of a polar solvent, such as acetic acid or dimethylformamide, to form a carboxylate anion intermediate. The general equation for the Kolbe's electrolytic method is: 2R-X + 2H2O → R-COOH + R'-COOH + 2H2