Chapter 6, Problem 31P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The rate of racemization of $\text{2-iodooctane}$ by sodium iodide in acetone is to be compared with the rate of incorporation of radioactive iodine into $\text{2-iodooctane}$ by satisfying the given conditions for each act of exchange.

Concept introduction:

The conversion of optically pure molecule into the mixture of enantiomers (i.e. racemic mixture) is called racemization.

The change in absolute configuration at the chirality center in the substitution reaction is called inversion of configuration.

If the absolute configuration at the chirality center remains same in the substitution reaction, it is called retention of configuration.