Question

Williamson synthesis of preparing unsymmetrical ether is:

• A. \text{S}N_1 \text{ reaction}
• B. \text{S}N_2 \text{ reaction}
• C. \text{Electrophilic addition reaction}
• D. \text{Elimination reaction}

Hint:

The Williamson synthesis is best understood as an \text{S}N_2 reaction where a strong nucleophile attacks the electrophilic carbon in an alkyl halide.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The Williamson synthesis involves the preparation of unsymmetrical ethers through an \text{S}N_2 (nucleophilic substitution) mechanism. In this reaction, an alkoxide ion (\( \text{R-O}^- \)) reacts with a primary or secondary alkyl halide, resulting in the formation of an ether. The \text{S}N_2 mechanism occurs with a backside attack by the nucleophile on the carbon attached to the leaving group, leading to the formation of the ether. Therefore, the correct answer is (B) \text{S}N_2.