What does a reaction mechanism describe?

A reaction mechanism describes the step-by-step sequence of reactions that occur during a chemical process. This detailed pathway illustrates how reactants convert into products through a series of elementary steps, including the formation of intermediates, transition states, and which bonds are broken or formed at each stage. Understanding the mechanism is crucial as it provides insight into the molecular details of the reaction, such as which molecules interact, the order of events, and how energy changes throughout the process.

The focus on the specific steps involved in the reaction allows chemists to predict the behavior of the reaction under different conditions or with different reactants. By analyzing the mechanism, chemists can also develop strategies to optimize reactions for better yields or faster rates.