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Multiple Choice
Which of the following reactions is an example of a nucleophilic substitution reaction in organic chemistry?
A
The reaction of an alkyl halide with a hydroxide ion to form an alcohol
B
The dehydration of an alcohol to form an alkene
C
The oxidation of a primary alcohol to form an aldehyde
D
The addition of bromine to an alkene to form a dibromo compound
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the type of reaction: Nucleophilic substitution reactions involve the replacement of a leaving group by a nucleophile. In organic chemistry, this typically involves an alkyl halide reacting with a nucleophile.
Examine the given options: Look for a reaction where a nucleophile replaces a leaving group. The options provided are: (1) Reaction of an alkyl halide with a hydroxide ion, (2) Dehydration of an alcohol, (3) Oxidation of a primary alcohol, (4) Addition of bromine to an alkene.
Analyze option 1: The reaction of an alkyl halide with a hydroxide ion involves the hydroxide ion (a nucleophile) attacking the carbon atom bonded to the halide (the leaving group), resulting in the formation of an alcohol. This is a classic example of a nucleophilic substitution reaction.
Consider the other options: Option 2 involves elimination (not substitution), option 3 involves oxidation (not substitution), and option 4 involves addition (not substitution).
Conclude: Based on the analysis, the reaction of an alkyl halide with a hydroxide ion to form an alcohol is the example of a nucleophilic substitution reaction.