Sn2 Sterics
Easychemistry
SN2 rate decreases in order:
Select the correct option:
Solution
Incorrect! Answer:
CH3Cl > CH3CH2Cl > (CH3)2CHCl > (CH3)3CCl
- SN2 Mechanism: This is a single-step concerted process where the nucleophile attacks from the side opposite to the leaving group.
- Transition State: A pentacoordinate transition state is formed. Since the nucleophile must approach the central carbon, steric hindrance is the dominant factor.
- Steric Order: Methyl halides (CH3X) have the least hindrance, while tertiary halides ((CH3)3CX) are extremely crowded.
- Reactivity Order: Methyl > Primary > Secondary >> Tertiary.
- Applying to Options: CH3Cl>CH3CH2Cl>(CH3)2CHCl>(CH3)3CCl.
🔒 Solution Hidden from View
Submit your answer to unlock the detailed step-by-step solution.
About This Question
- Subject
- chemistry
- Chapter
- halogen organics
- Topic
- sn2 sterics
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Year
- 2025
Solution
Correct Answer:
CH3Cl > CH3CH2Cl > (CH3)2CHCl > (CH3)3CCl
- SN2 Mechanism: This is a single-step concerted process where the nucleophile attacks from the side opposite to the leaving group.
- Transition State: A pentacoordinate transition state is formed. Since the nucleophile must approach the central carbon, steric hindrance is the dominant factor.
- Steric Order: Methyl halides (CH3X) have the least hindrance, while tertiary halides ((CH3)3CX) are extremely crowded.
- Reactivity Order: Methyl > Primary > Secondary >> Tertiary.
- Applying to Options: CH3Cl>CH3CH2Cl>(CH3)2CHCl>(CH3)3CCl.
This easy difficulty chemistry question is from the chapter halogen organics, covering the topic of sn2 sterics. It appeared in the 2025 exam.
Looking for more practice? Explore all chemistry questions or browse halogen organics questions on RankGuru.