In SN2 reaction, nucleophile attacks on the electrophilic carbon?

Correct answer: B. Opposite to the leaving group

  • A. From the side of leaving group
  • B. Opposite to the leaving group
  • C. In front of the leaving group
  • D. Below the leaving group

Explanation

In an SN2 (substitution nucleophilic bimolecular) reaction, the nucleophile attacks the electrophilic carbon from the opposite side of the leaving group. This is because the nucleophile and the leaving group repel each other, and approaching from the opposite side minimizes steric hindrance, leading to a more favorable reaction pathway. Therefore, option B is correct, and the other options are incorrect because they describe orientations that would result in greater steric hindrance. Therefore, option b is correct.

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About Alkyl Halides

Alkyl halides are named and related to their carbon-halogen structure, polarity and reactivity. The key reactions are nucleophilic substitution by SN1 and SN2 mechanisms and elimination by E1 and E2 mechanisms, including how substrate structure, nucleophile, base, solvent and temperature influence substitution versus elimination.

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