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Multiple Choice
Which statement about the reaction mechanism of nucleophilic substitution is correct?
A
In SN2 reactions, the nucleophile attacks the substrate after the leaving group has departed.
B
SN2 reactions are characterized by a two-step mechanism.
C
SN1 reactions typically occur with primary substrates.
D
In SN1 reactions, the rate-determining step involves the formation of a carbocation intermediate.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the difference between SN1 and SN2 reactions: SN1 reactions involve a two-step mechanism where the first step is the formation of a carbocation intermediate, while SN2 reactions involve a one-step mechanism where the nucleophile attacks the substrate simultaneously as the leaving group departs.
Analyze the statement about SN2 reactions: In SN2 reactions, the nucleophile attacks the substrate at the same time as the leaving group departs, not after. This is a concerted mechanism, meaning it occurs in a single step.
Evaluate the statement about SN2 reactions being two-step: SN2 reactions are characterized by a one-step mechanism, not two-step. The nucleophile attacks the substrate directly, leading to the inversion of configuration at the carbon center.
Consider the statement about SN1 reactions with primary substrates: SN1 reactions typically occur with tertiary substrates, not primary, because tertiary carbocations are more stable than primary ones.
Identify the correct statement about SN1 reactions: The rate-determining step in SN1 reactions is the formation of a carbocation intermediate, which is a slow step and determines the overall reaction rate.