When halogen is removed from an alkyl halide a carbocation is formed, identify the most reactive carbocation
Correct answer: D. Methyl carbocation
- A. Primary carbocation
- B. Secondary carbocation
- C. Tertiary carbocation
- D. Methyl carbocation
Explanation
Methyl Carbocation (CH₃⁺)Structure: Only has one carbon atom, with no alkyl groups to stabilize the positive charge.Stability: Least stable of all carbocations.Reactivity: Most reactive, because it desperately seeks stabilization.Reason: No hyperconjugation or inductive effect; the positive charge sits entirely on one carbon with no support.
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About Nucleophilic Substitution
Nucleophilic substitution replaces a leaving group in an alkyl halide when an electron-rich nucleophile attacks the carbon atom. The topic compares SN1 and SN2 mechanisms, including reaction conditions, substrate structure, solvent effects, nucleophile strength, carbocation formation and stereochemical changes, and distinguishes substitution from elimination.
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