Question

Describe the mechanism of bimolecular nucleophilic substitution reactions (\( S_N2 \)) in haloalkanes.

Hint:

\( S_N2 \) reactions are favored by primary alkyl halides and strong nucleophiles.

Answer 1

Step 1: Definition of \( S_N2 \) Reaction: The \( S_N2 \) reaction is a one-step nucleophilic substitution mechanism where the nucleophile attacks while the leaving group departs simultaneously. Step 2: Mechanism: \[ \text{R-Br} + \text{OH}^- \rightarrow \text{R-OH} + Br^- \] - Rate Law: \( \text{Rate} = k [\text{R-X}] [\text{Nu}^-] \) - Stereochemistry: Inversion of configuration (Walden Inversion).