Examination of the evidence for ‘Hal B I’ and ‘Hal B II’ mechanisms for halogenation of ketones

Abstract

The evidence for base catalysed ‘Hal B I’ and ‘Hal B II’ mechanisms for halogenation of ketones has been reevaluated. Our results, together with those of Cullis and Hashmi, support the traditional mechanism of halogenation. Alternative interpretations are suggested for the ‘apparent’ evidence for ‘Hal B I’ and ‘Hal B II’ mechanisms. The kinetics of the reactions of 1- and 3-bromobutan-2-one with aqueous hydroxide ion have been determined.