Organokaalides

Organokaalides, also known as organohalogeno compounds, are a broad class of organic compounds that contain at least one covalent bond between a carbon atom and a halogen atom (fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, or astatine). They include simple alkyl and aryl halides as well as more complex structures such as vinyl and acyl halides. The term is used in chemistry to describe molecules in which a halogen is integrated into the carbon framework, often replacing a hydrogen atom.

Classification and types commonly used in literature include by halogen type (fluoro-, chloro-, bromo-, iodo-), by carbon skeleton (alkyl halides, aryl halides, vinyl halides, acyl halides), and by reactivity or substitution pattern (primary, secondary, tertiary alkyl halides; aryl and vinyl halides often exhibit different reactivity). Alkyl halides, aryl halides, and acyl halides form the major functional groups within organokaalides.

Synthesis and reactions: organokaalides are typically formed by halogenation of hydrocarbons or substitution reactions where a hydrogen is replaced by a halogen. They participate in a range of transformations including SN1 and SN2 substitutions, eliminations, and cross-coupling reactions. Aryl and vinyl halides are especially common substrates in palladium- or nickel-catalyzed coupling processes, enabling the construction of complex molecules.

Applications and safety: organokaalides are widely used as intermediates in organic synthesis, enabling production of polymers (for example vinyl halides for polyvinyl chloride), pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. Many organokaalides are toxic or environmentally persistent; handling requires appropriate safety measures and waste management.