Why does a solvation complex (w/ polar protic solvents) lower the energy of the transition state in SN1 reactions?
In SN1 reaction when leaving group is solvated by solvent molecules. Polar protic solvent is used in SN1 reaction.
Positive partial charge on solvent helps to detach the leaving group from carbon. Once leaving group is left then carbocation is formed which is surrounded by the solvent molecules. This helps to keep leaving group away.
In second step nucleophile attacks on carbocation. In short we can say that solvent molecules helps to break leaving group and carbon bond and keep leaving group away which results in lowering of activation energy.
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