20.4 : 라디칼 형성: 균형분해

When sufficient energy breaks a bond, and one atom gets both the electrons, leading to the formation of ions, it is known as heterolysis.

Alternatively, when the electrons are evenly distributed as an unpaired bonding electron on both atoms, generating radicals, it is known as homolysis.

Energy supplied as heat from high temperatures can homolyze most bonds, while heat a little above room temperature can homolyze some weak bonds. For instance, the weak O–O bond in peroxides undergoes homolysis on heating to form alkoxyl radicals.

Alternatively, light of an appropriate wavelength can homolyze specific bonds.

The relatively weak bonds in halogen molecules easily homolyze with heat or light, resulting in halide radicals.