When considering the kinetic isotope effect and hyperconjugation involving different isotopes of hyd — GOC and Organic Chemistry Basics Chemistry Question
Question
When considering the kinetic isotope effect and hyperconjugation involving different isotopes of hydrogen (Protium, Deuterium, Tritium), which of the following statements are chemically accurate?
💡 Solution & Explanation
Because the C-D and C-T bonds are progressively heavier and stronger, they vibrate less and overlap less effectively with empty p-orbitals. Thus, their hyperconjugative ability is weaker ($-CH_3 > -CD_3 > -CT_3$). Conversely, shorter, tighter bonds mean the electron density is closer to the carbon, increasing their inductive push ($-CT_3 > -CD_3 > -CH_3$). Statement D is false; hyperconjugation is no-bond resonance, not actual cleavage.