This reaction is a chain reaction which proceeds in several steps. An important point concerning this particular reaction is that it transforms an alkane molecule into one which has a more reactive“ functional group” on it-a halogen in this specific case. The functional group makes it possible for the molecule to take part in many different kinds of reactionsThis reaction is a chain reaction which proceeds in several steps. An important point concerning this particular reaction is that it transforms an alkane molecule into one which has a more reactive “functional group” on it——a halogen in this specific case. The functional group makes it possible for the molecule to take part in many different kinds of reactions