Grignard reagents are very reactive and easily react with water (among other substances containing acidic protons).

a. Write the reaction of the Grignard reagent we prepared in the lab with water. Use structural formulas for all organic compounds and write their names underneath.

b. When running this experiment, what precautions must be taken to prevent this side reaction?

Grignard reagents, represented as RMgX, react with water to form an alkane and a magnesium hydroxide salt, due to their reactivity. When working with Grignard reagents, it's critical to control their exposure to moisture and oxygen, often by working in an oxygen- and water-free environment.

Explanation:

A) The Grignard reagent, which is normally represented as RMgX (with R being the organic group, Mg the magnesium and X the halogen), reacts with water in the following way:

RMgX + H2O -> RH + Mg(OH)X

This reaction represents a Grignard reagent (RMgX) reacting with water, showing that water decomposes the Grignard reagent to produce an alkane (RH) and a magnesium hydroxide salt (Mg(OH)X).

B) When working with Grignard reagents, because they are so reactive, it is crucial to prevent exposure to moisture or any other source of acidic protons, like oxygen in the air. In a lab environment, this involves taking precautions like working in an oxygen-free and water-free environment, typically under an inert gas like nitrogen or argon. Also, the glasswares should be completely dry.

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