Chapter 8, Problem 8.72P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

It is to be explained if the given information suggests that the reaction takes place by ${\text{S}}_{\text{N}}\text{1}$ or ${\text{S}}_{\text{N}}\text{2}$ mechanism.

Concept introduction:

The ${\text{S}}_{\text{N}}\text{1}$ mechanism involving similar reactants produces a mixture of enantiomers, and the ${\text{S}}_{\text{N}}\text{2}$ mechanism yields only one of those enantiomers. The rate of reaction is directly proportional to the concentration of nucleophile in ${\text{S}}_{\text{N}}\text{2}$ reaction. In ${\text{S}}_{\text{N}}\text{2}$ mechanism, the C atom’s bond to the nucleophile in the products is on the opposite side of the leaving group in the reactant. The ${\text{S}}_{\text{N}}\text{2}$ reaction produces the enantiomer of the reactant, which gives the racemic mixture of enantiomers.