adduct

chemistry

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

In chemistry, an adduct is a product formed by a chemical addition reaction. This type of reaction involves the joining of two or more molecules to create a single, larger molecule.123

Addition reactions are common in unsaturated organic compounds, such as alkenes and alkynes, which contain double or triple bonds between carbon atoms. These bonds can break to accommodate additional atoms or groups, leading to a more saturated molecule. For example, chlorine can be added to ethylene to produce dichloroethane.34

The process can be initiated by either electron-seeking (electrophilic) or electron-rich (nucleophilic) reagents, depending on the specific molecules involved. These reactions are fundamental in organic synthesis, allowing chemists to build complex carbon skeletons.356

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

6 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

acid–base reaction
Reactions of Lewis acids
…is the formation of an adduct in which the two species are joined by a covalent bond; proton transfers are not normally involved. If both the Lewis acid and base are uncharged, the resulting bond is termed semipolar or coordinate, as in the reaction of boron trifluoride with ammonia:
Read More
…is the formation of an adduct in which the two species are joined by a covalent bond; proton transfers are not normally involved. If both the Lewis acid and base are uncharged, the resulting bond is termed semipolar or coordinate, as in the reaction of boron trifluoride with ammonia:
Read More