Chapter 23, Problem 23.35P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Mechanism for the formation of the quaternary ammonium salt and its structural formula has to be proposed when trimethylamine reacts with 2-chloroethyl acetate.

Concept Introduction:

${\text{S}}_{\text{N}}2$Reaction: It is a nucleophilic substitution reaction in which the rate determining step depends on both of the molecules involved. The bond making and the bond breaking process happens simultaneously in this reaction.

Structure of the substrate plays major role in the reactivity of ${\text{S}}_{\text{N}}2$ reaction. If the substrate is more substituted then the rate of the reaction will becomes slower. Since the mechanism of ${\text{S}}_{\text{N}}2$ reaction proceeds through backside attack on the substrate, it depends on steric factor that if more groups attached near the leaving group the reactivity becomes slower.