Question

This reaction mechanism is favored by \( 3^{\circ} \) substrates, low temperatures, polar solvents, and low concentrations of very weak bases.

• A. \( \text{E1} \)
• B. \( \text{E2} \)
• C. \( \text{SN1} \)
• D. \( \text{SN2} \)

Hint:

SN2 reactions are favored by strong nucleophiles and polar aprotic solvents, while SN1 reactions prefer polar protic solvents.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The SN2 (bimolecular nucleophilic substitution) reaction occurs in a single-step mechanism where the nucleophile attacks the substrate simultaneously with the leaving group departure. However, SN2 reactions are generally disfavored for \( 3^{\circ} \) substrates due to steric hindrance. In cases of strong nucleophiles and polar aprotic solvents, SN2 is more favorable for \( 1^{\circ} \) and \( 2^{\circ} \) substrates. The given conditions are more consistent with SN1 reactions rather than SN2, so the correct answer should likely be reviewed.