Question

Given below are two statements:
Statement (I) : S$_N$2 reactions are 'stereospecific', indicating that they result in the formation only one stereo-isomers as the product.
Statement (II) : S$_N$1 reactions generally result in formation of product as racemic mixtures.
In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below :

• A. Statement I is true but Statement II is false
• B. Statement I is false but Statement II is true
• C. Both Statement I and Statement II is true
• D. Both Statement I and Statement II is false

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

S$_\text{N}2$ reactions are stereospecific and proceed via a backside attack, resulting in the inversion of configuration at the chiral center.
S$_\text{N}1$ reactions occur via a carbocation intermediate, which is planar. As a result, nucleophiles can attack from either side, leading to a racemic mixture of products.
Thus:
$$\text{S$_\text{N}2$} \rightarrow \text{Inversion (stereospecific)}, \quad \text{S$_\text{N}1$} \rightarrow \text{Racemization}.$$
Both statements are correct.