# 1-chloropropane can be hydrolysed by reacting it with aqueous sodium hydroxide solution. The product is propan-1-ol and a sodium salt. Explain why 1-chloropropane undergoes this reaction more readily than 1-fluoropropane would, and describe what is meant by saying that 1-chloropropane belongs to a homologous series of halogenoalkanes.

> AQA A-Level Chemistry (7405) — 3.3.3 Halogenoalkanes · Explain · 5 marks

> Halogenoalkanes are formed when a hydrogen atom in an alkane is replaced by a halogen atom. They undergo hydrolysis reactions with aqueous sodium hydroxide solution to form alcohols.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. The C–Cl bond is weaker than the C–F bond
2. Because the C–Cl bond is weaker, it is more easily broken during the reaction / less energy is needed to break it
3. A homologous series is a series of compounds with the same functional group
4. Members of the homologous series have similar chemical properties
5. Each successive member of the homologous series differs by CH₂

## Key terms

- [halogenoalkane](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/halogenoalkane)
- [homologous series](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/homologous-series)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/1-chloropropane-can-be-hydrolysed-by-reacting-6d305e09) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.