What is the influence of substrate on the SN2 reaction?
Understand the Problem
The question discusses the influence of substrates on the rate of the SN2 reaction, focusing on how steric hindrance and the positioning of nucleophiles affect reaction speed.
Answer
Substrates with less steric hindrance react faster in SN2 reactions.
The influence of the substrate on SN2 reactions depends on steric hindrance. Methyl and primary substrates react the fastest due to minimal steric hindrance, secondary substrates react slower, and tertiary substrates generally do not participate due to significant steric hindrance.
Answer for screen readers
The influence of the substrate on SN2 reactions depends on steric hindrance. Methyl and primary substrates react the fastest due to minimal steric hindrance, secondary substrates react slower, and tertiary substrates generally do not participate due to significant steric hindrance.
More Information
In SN2 reactions, the nucleophile attacks the substrate from the backside, due to which steric hindrance plays a crucial role. Less sterically hindered substrates, like methyl and primary alkyl halides, allow the nucleophile to attack more easily, resulting in faster reactions.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming that tertiary substrates can participate in SN2 reactions. Due to excessive steric hindrance, they generally do not.
Sources
- 6.10: Structure and SN2 Reactivity: The Substrate - chem.libretexts.org
- SN2 Reaction Mechanism - Master Organic Chemistry - masterorganicchemistry.com
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