Addition reactions

Definition

Addition reactions occur when two or more reactants combine to form a single product, typically involving unsaturated molecules (like alkenes and alkynes) gaining atoms, eliminating their double or triple bonds. These reactions are fundamental in organic chemistry for creating more complex molecules from simpler ones.

Related terms

Alkenes: Hydrocarbons that contain at least one carbon-to-carbon double bond, which makes them prime candidates for addition reactions.

Markovnikov's Rule: A rule used to predict the outcome of regioselective addition reactions of hydrogen halides to unsymmetrical alkenes, stating that the hydrogen atom bonds to the carbon with more hydrogen atoms already attached.

Electrophilic Addition: A type of addition reaction where an electrophile reacts with a nucleophile, often seen in the context of adding halogens or acids across the double bonds of alkenes