Sn1 Vs Sn2
Easychemistry
Which substrate reacts fastest via SN1 in aqueous ethanol?
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Solution
Incorrect! Answer:
(CH3)3CCl
- SN1 Mechanism: The rate-determining step is the formation of a carbocation intermediate.
- Rate Dependency: The stability of the carbocation directly determines the reaction rate. Stability order: Tertiary (3∘) > Secondary (2∘) > Primary (1∘) > Methyl.
- Analysis of Substrates:
- (CH3)3CCl (tert-butyl chloride): Forms a tertiary carbocation, (CH3)3C+, stabilized by 9 hyperconjugative H-atoms and +I effect of three methyl groups.
- CH3CH2Cl and CH3CH2CH2Cl: Form primary carbocations.
- CH3Cl: Forms a methyl carbocation (least stable).
- Conclusion: Tert-butyl chloride reacts fastest due to its superior carbocation stability.
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About This Question
- Subject
- chemistry
- Chapter
- halogen organics
- Topic
- sn1 vs sn2
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Year
- 2025
Solution
Correct Answer:
(CH3)3CCl
- SN1 Mechanism: The rate-determining step is the formation of a carbocation intermediate.
- Rate Dependency: The stability of the carbocation directly determines the reaction rate. Stability order: Tertiary (3∘) > Secondary (2∘) > Primary (1∘) > Methyl.
- Analysis of Substrates:
- (CH3)3CCl (tert-butyl chloride): Forms a tertiary carbocation, (CH3)3C+, stabilized by 9 hyperconjugative H-atoms and +I effect of three methyl groups.
- CH3CH2Cl and CH3CH2CH2Cl: Form primary carbocations.
- CH3Cl: Forms a methyl carbocation (least stable).
- Conclusion: Tert-butyl chloride reacts fastest due to its superior carbocation stability.
This easy difficulty chemistry question is from the chapter halogen organics, covering the topic of sn1 vs sn2. It appeared in the 2025 exam.
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