When a radical meets an alkane molecule like methane, it starts a chain reaction.The chlorine radical approaches the methane molecule, looking to snatch a hydrogen atom.The radical's unpaired electron interacts with one of methane's C-H bonds.As the chlorine radical abstracts a hydrogen atom, it forms HCl and creates a new methyl radical.This newly formed methyl radical is now ready to continue the chain reaction by attacking another molecule.This propagation step continues as the new radical reacts with other molecules, perpetuating the chain reaction.When two free radicals meet, they can combine their unpaired electrons to form a stable bond.Each radical contributes one electron to form a new covalent bond.The unpaired electrons come together, forming a stable covalent bond.This forms a new stable molecule, ending the radical chain reaction.The energy of the system decreases as the radicals combine, reaching a more stable state.This termination step is crucial for ending the radical chain reaction, preventing it from continuing indefinitely.
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