Chemistry 9701 · AS & A Level · Reaction kinetics

Reaction kinetics — practice question

Halogenoalkanes undergo reaction with $\text{NaOH(aq)}$ by either an $S_N1$ mechanism or an $S_N2$ mechanism. The mechanism used in the reaction is determined by the structure of the halogenoalkane. In this question, the reaction of 3-bromo-3-ethylpentane, $(\text{C}_2\text{H}_5)_3\text{CBr}$, is considered. Which statement is the correct one?

  • AThe mechanism is $S_N1$, due to the stabilisation of an intermediate anion by three alkyl groups.
  • BThe mechanism is $S_N1$, due to the stabilisation of an intermediate cation by three alkyl groups.
  • CThe mechanism is $S_N2$, due to the stabilisation of an intermediate anion by three alkyl groups.
  • DThe mechanism is $S_N2$, due to the stabilisation of an intermediate cation by three alkyl groups.

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