Topic 15 - Halogenoalkanes

Question 1

Describe SN1 mechanism

Answer 1

Nucleophilic Substitution unimolecular
- only one reactant in the slow rate determining step
- Two step reaction mechanism as another step is required to involve the other reaction (steric hindrance caused by bulky groups around the C+)

Question 2

Which halogenoalkanes undergo SN1

Answer 2

Tertiary (steric hindrance)

Question 3

Describe SN2 mechanism

Answer 3

Nucleophilic Substitution Bimolecular
- 2 reactants appear in the slow rate determining step
- One step reaction mechanism
- Primary Halogenoalkanes undergo SN2 as there is no steric hinderance