Summary
Highlights
An elimination reaction is defined as the removal of two atoms or groups of atoms, resulting in the formation of a double bond between two carbon atoms. For example, removing a chlorine atom and a hydrogen atom from an organic molecule forms a double bond, requiring concentrated sulfuric acid as a reagent.
In elimination reactions, it's possible to form more than one product. There will always be a major and a minor product. Unlike addition reactions, elimination reactions follow 'Ed Nigh's' rule, also known as the "poor gets poorer" rule.
To determine the major product, examine the carbon atom directly attached to the group being eliminated. Then, look at the carbons on either side of that atom and count how many hydrogens are attached to them. The carbon with fewer hydrogens (the 'poor' carbon) will lose another hydrogen, and the double bond will form in that position, leading to the major product.
'Ed Nigh' is a mnemonic to help explain elimination reactions. 'E' stands for equation, where you draw and number the carbons of the reactant and name all compounds. 'D' is for define, requiring a specific definition of the elimination reaction for the given example. 'N' means numbering products, stating the number of possible products. 'I' is for identify, clearly labeling the major and minor products. 'E' finally stands for explain, where the formation of the major product is detailed, primarily using the 'poor gets poorer' rule, followed by a brief mention of the minor product.