halogenoalkanes

Question 1

2-bromo-2methylpropane and 1-bromobutane: what mechanism do they undergo

Answer 1

1-bromobutane: SN2 mechanism
1-bromobutane has fewer alkyl groups attached tot he electron deficient C atom than 2-bromo-2methylpropane. hence, attack by the OH- nucleophile is less sterically hindered for 1-bromobutane.

2-bromo-2methylpropane undergoes SN1 mechanism.
alkyl groups are electron-donating so 2-bromo-2methylpropane forms a more stable tertiary carbocation than 1-bromobutane