Question

Which of the following is the best solvent for carrying out a nucleophilic substitution reaction with a halide?

• A. Chlorine in water.
• B. Chlorine in carbon tetrachloride.
• C. Chlorine in acetic acid.
• D. Chlorine in acetone.

Hint:

In nucleophilic substitution reactions, use polar aprotic solvents like acetone to enhance the reactivity of the nucleophile.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Solvent Choice.
The choice of solvent is crucial in nucleophilic substitution reactions. Polar aprotic solvents like acetone are often preferred because they do not solvate the nucleophile strongly, allowing it to remain reactive.
Step 2: Analyzing the Options.
- (A) Chlorine in water is not suitable for nucleophilic substitution as water is a protic solvent.
- (B) Chlorine in carbon tetrachloride is not ideal as CCl\(_4\) is nonpolar and does not support nucleophilic substitution efficiently.
- (C) Chlorine in acetic acid is not a strong choice either as acetic acid is a polar protic solvent.
- (D) Chlorine in acetone is the best choice as acetone is a polar aprotic solvent that facilitates nucleophilic substitution.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (D) Chlorine in acetone.