Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Nucleophilic Substitution Mechanism
Nucleophilic substitution is a fundamental reaction in organic chemistry where a nucleophile replaces a leaving group in a molecule. The rate of this reaction can depend on the structure of the alkyl halide and the nature of the nucleophile. In this case, the reaction of 2-bromo-2-methylbutane with methanol involves a nucleophilic attack by methanol on the carbon atom bonded to the bromine, leading to the formation of an ether.
Recommended video:
Nucleophiles and Electrophiles can react in Substitution Reactions.
Leaving Group Ability
The ability of a leaving group to depart from a molecule significantly influences the rate of nucleophilic substitution reactions. Bromine is generally a better leaving group than chlorine due to its larger size and weaker bond strength with carbon. Therefore, changing from 2-bromo-2-methylbutane to 2-chloro-2-methylbutane would likely slow the reaction rate because chlorine is a less effective leaving group.
Recommended video:
How to use the factors affecting acidity to predict leaving group ability.
Steric Hindrance
Steric hindrance refers to the prevention of reactions due to the spatial arrangement of atoms within a molecule. In the case of 2-chloro-3-methylbutane, the presence of a methyl group adjacent to the reactive center can create steric hindrance, making it more difficult for the nucleophile to approach and react with the carbon atom. This can lead to a slower reaction rate compared to less hindered substrates.
Recommended video:
Understanding steric effects.