Asked in HEC Phase II 2017 2017Moderate

Which class of halogenoalkane can react with alkali by an SN2 mechanism?

Correct answer: A. Primary and secondary

  • A. Primary and secondary
  • B. Secondary and tertiary
  • C. Primary and tertiary
  • D. Primary, secondary and tertiary

Explanation

a) Primary and secondary:This option suggests that both primary and secondary halogenoalkanes can react with alkali by an SN2 (substitution nucleophilic bimolecular) mechanism. In SN2 reactions, the nucleophile attacks the carbon atom bearing the leaving group, resulting in a simultaneous substitution of the leaving group and the nucleophile. Primary and secondary halogenoalkanes are suitable for SN2 reactions because they have a less hindered carbon center, allowing the nucleophile to approach and substitute the leaving group more easily.

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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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