Which one of the following halides is most reactive towards nucleophilic substitution reaction?

Correct answer: C. C2H5I

  • A. C2H5Br
  • B. C2H5F
  • C. C2H5I
  • D. C2H5Cl

Explanation

Among the options provided, C2H5I (ethyl iodide) is generally more reactive. This greater reactivity of ethyl iodide is due to the larger size of the iodine atom compared to the bromine atom. The larger size of the iodine atom results in a weaker carbon-iodine bond, making it easier for a nucleophile to attack and replace the iodine atom. This is known as the "size effect" in nucleophilic substitution reactions. Therefore, option c 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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