Chapter 27, Problem 21E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Major product of the given reaction is to be determined. Also, the mechanism for each reaction should be described.

Concept introduction:

Nucleophilic substitution reaction $\left({\text{S}}_{\text{N}}2\right)$ is a single step substitution reaction in which electron rich species substitute leaving group. The attack takes place from the back side of the electrophilic center thus an inversion of the configuration takes place. Also, there is a single transition state because bond breaking and bond making occurs simultaneously.

Elimination reaction is the type of reaction in which two substituents attached to the adjacent carbon atoms are removed from the reactant molecule to form the product. In $\text{E2}$ elimination reactions, the two substituents are removed in a single step and a transition state is formed. Both the substituents should be at $180°\text{C}$ to each other in $\text{E2}$ elimination reaction. The rate of $\text{E2}$ elimination reaction depends upon both the reactant molecules and therefore follows second order kinetics. Generally strong bases favor $\text{E2}$ elimination reactions.