Chlorination of toluene in the presence of sunlight produces:Sunlight provides the energy to break a chlorine molecule (Cl₂) into chlorine radicals (Cl∙).These radicals then react with the toluene molecule, primarily targeting the benzylic position (the carbon atom next to the benzene ring) due to its stability.This reaction leads to the substitution of a hydrogen atom on the benzylic carbon with a chlorine atom, forming benzyl chloride.

About Chemistry of Hydrocarbons

Hydrocarbons are studied through the structures and reactions of alkanes, alkenes, alkynes and aromatic compounds. Coverage includes free radical substitution in alkanes, electrophilic addition to carbon-carbon multiple bonds, benzene substitution, aromatic stability and the difference between addition reactions of alkenes and substitution reactions of benzene.

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