Question

explain ,in terms of intermediate stability,why primary alkyl halides undergo Sn2 mechanism whereas tertiary halides undergo Sn1 mechanism.use suitable examples in both cases

Answer 1

Primary alkyl halides typically undergo SN2 substitution reactions more rapidly than do secondary and tertiary alkyl

halides due to primary halides possessing less bulky groupsthat can hinder the approach of the nucleophile to the

carbon. Secondary and tertiaryalkyl halides are bulkier as they possess more methyl groups.

1 > 2 > 3

SN1 reactions proceed via a carbocation intermediate. Tertiary carbocations are much more stable than secondary

or primary.