What happens to the temperature of the reaction mixture when it is heated to reflux?

When a reaction mixture is heated to reflux, the temperature of the mixture remains constant, given that the solvent is at its boiling point. During refluxing, the solvent evaporates and condenses back into the reaction mixture continuously, maintaining a constant temperature equal to the boiling point of the solvent being used. This allows for efficient heating of the reaction without the risk of losing the volatile components present. The concept of reflux is essential in organic synthesis as it allows for completion of reactions over an extended period while controlling the temperature. Some reactions may produce heat (exothermic reactions), but the addition of the boiling solvent vapor actively regulates the overall temperature, keeping it stable throughout the process.