Chapter 27: Problem 25

Differentiate between outer-sphere mechanism and inner-sphere meachanism for electron- transfer reactions.

Short Answer

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Outer-sphere mechanisms involve electron transfer through solvent molecules and no bond is formed between reactants, whereas inner-sphere mechanisms transfer electrons via a bridge or covalent bond between reactants. After electron transfer, the bridge in inner-sphere mechanism breaks, leading to product formation.

Step by step solution

Outer-Sphere Mechanism

In Outer-Sphere Mechanism: This involves the transfer of electrons between two reactants which do not form a covalent bond or share ligands. They are simply surrounded by a 'sphere' of solvent molecules. Instead, the transfer takes place through space, and is usually faster when the two reactants are close in proximity and oriented properly. Key features of outer-sphere mechanism include no forming of a bond between reactants, involvement of solvent molecules and faster reaction when reactants are closer.

Inner-Sphere Mechanism

In Inner-Sphere Mechanism: This involves the transfer of electrons between two reactants which form a transient or bridged complex, i.e., the reactants are linked through a shared ligand or covalent bond. This shared bridge allows the electron to get transferred from one reactant to the other. The transient complex then undergoes a transformation resulting in the breaking of the bridge and the formation of products. Inner-sphere mechanisms characteristically involve a bridge formation between reactants, the transfer of electron via this bridge, and the breaking of the bridge leading to product formation.

Comparing Outer and Inner-Sphere Mechanisms

While comparing, the main difference between the two mechanisms is that in the outer-sphere mechanism, electron transfer between reactants does not involve the formation of a covalent bond or shared ligands. In contrast, an inner-sphere mechanism involves formation of a transient or bridged complex which facilitates electron transfer.

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Differentiate between outer-sphere mechanism and inner-sphere meachanism for electron- transfer reactions.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Outer-Sphere Mechanism

Inner-Sphere Mechanism

Comparing Outer and Inner-Sphere Mechanisms

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