Convert a given alkane to any higher or lower alkene without sides rxn

[sadhu]

how can we convert any given alkane to any other higher or lower alkane without giving rise to any side reactions

i tried to find many books but they all give wurtz,decarboxylation,kolbe synthesis
but for all these steps we need to prepare their halogen deirvatives which are formed in different isomeric forms

 

[Kushal]

there is the cracking of large alkane molecules, to give smaller ones in the petroleum industry. you only need a catalyst, silica or alumina, and a temperature of about 450 degrees.

for converting lower alkanes molecules to larger ones, i have no clue.

 

[ravenprp]

There are several methods that can be used to convert a given alkane to a higher or lower alkene without causing any side reactions. One method is known as the "elimination reaction" where a strong base, such as sodium hydroxide, is used to remove a hydrogen atom from the alkane molecule, resulting in the formation of a double bond. This method can be used to convert an alkane to a higher alkene by removing multiple hydrogen atoms, or to a lower alkene by removing only a single hydrogen atom.

Another method is known as the "oxidative dehydrogenation" where a mild oxidizing agent, such as potassium permanganate, is used to remove a hydrogen atom from the alkane molecule, causing the formation of a double bond. This method can also be used to convert an alkane to a higher or lower alkene, depending on the number of hydrogen atoms removed.

Additionally, there are other methods such as the "hydroboration-oxidation" reaction, which involves the addition of a boron compound to the alkane followed by oxidation to form a double bond. This method is particularly useful for converting a given alkane to a lower alkene.

It is important to carefully control reaction conditions and use appropriate reagents to avoid any side reactions. It may also be helpful to use techniques such as distillation or chromatography to purify the desired product and remove any impurities. Overall, with careful planning and selection of appropriate methods, it is possible to convert any given alkane to a higher or lower alkene without causing any side reactions.