[FinEvitable]

Hi there i have to look at the alkylation of benzene and i need a bit of help.
Does the chloromethane form the positive ion with the freidel-crafts catalyst the same way in the chlorination of benzene?
I drew out the reaction mechanism but it just didnt look right to me having the CH3+ ion.
Is that right or am i totally off?
thanks

[Dan]

You are on the right lines, you form a (or increase the existing) partial positive charge on the carbon of chloromethane,rather than a free carbocation. The displacement of chloride by benzene is probably concerted, given the low stability of CH₃⁺.

Then deprotonate and you're there.

[FinEvitable]

Thanks for the help
Ive drawn it out now showing it destabilizing the benzene ring and it looks right! There may be a few things ive missed out of the mechanism drawing but i can live with that lol thats why im learning.
Thanks again.