We know that CH4 reacts with Cl2 in the presence of UV light, right =P
This is (sort of) how it happens.
Free radical = a species that has unpaired valence electrons. Usually denoted in equation by a dot right next to symbol/formulaP/S dat cherry is single electron
As you see some ethane will be formed in the end. There's actually other products besides what we want - chloromethane.
Sometimes the Cl radical collides with a chloromethane & as the reaction carries on, dichloromethane, trichloromethane, tetrachloromethane will be formed.
Apparently organic chemists need to purify the products to get what they want.. XD
(Explanation referenced from Chemguide.co.uk and Wikipedia >w<
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