4.3.8

Curly Arrows & Mechanisms

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Reaction Mechanisms

A reaction mechanism shows the formation of new bonds in the sequence they are created.

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Curly arrows

  • A curly arrow is used to show the movement of a pair of electrons.
  • This is useful to show the formation of new bonds.
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Bond breaking

  • A curly arrow can also be used to show the breaking of a bond.
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Free radicals

  • A free radical is a molecule or atom with an unpaired electron.
  • Free radicals are very reactive molecules.
  • An unpaired electron is shown using a dot.

Jump to other topics

1Principles of Science I

1.1Structure & Bonding

1.2Properties of Substances

1.3Cell Structure & Function

1.4Cell Specialisation

1.5Tissue Structure & Function

1.6Working with Waves

1.7Waves in Communication

2Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques

3Science Investigation Skills

4Principles of Science II

4.1Extracting Elements

4.2Relating Properties to use of Substances

4.3Organic Chemistry

4.4Energy Changes in Industry

4.5The Circulatory System

4.6Ventilation & Gas Exchange

4.7Urinary System

4.8Cell Transport

4.9Thermal Physics

4.10Materials

4.11Fluids

5Contemporary Issues in Science

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