Which alkyl halide would react fastest by the SN1 mechanism?
- A. CH3Br
- B. CH3CH2Br
- C. (CH3)2CHBr
- D. (CH3)3CBr
Explanation
SN1 rates follow the stability of the carbocation formed, and that increases from primary through secondary to tertiary because each alkyl group releases electron density and spreads the charge. The tertiary bromide therefore ionises most readily. The order is exactly reversed for SN2, where the methyl halide reacts fastest because it is the least hindered.
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