Question

Alcohols can be prepared by haloalkanes using hydroxide ion in aqueous media through $S_{N}1$ and $S_{N}2$.
The $S_{N}1$ reaction is a two-step reaction. In the first step, the carbon-halogen bond breaks to generate a stable carbocation. In the second step, the nucleophile reacts rapidly with the carbocation. This reaction follows first order kinetics.
The $S_{N}2$ is a concerted reaction in which transition state is achieved where bond making and bond breaking occur simultaneously. This reaction follows second order kinetics.
Consider the following reaction sequence.

Which of the following statement is correct about regarding the reaction?

• A. Molecularity of the reaction is two
• B. Polar protic solvents drive this reaction
• C. Polar aprotic solvents are preferred
• D. None of these

Answer 1

The correct option is B Polar protic solvents drive this reaction

Reaction follows $S_{N}1$ pathway. Step I is the slowest and reversible since formation of carbocation takes place. The rate of reaction depends only on the concentration of alkyl halide and not on the concentration of hydroxide ion. Molecularity of the reaction is one.
Polar protic solvents are used in $S_{N}1$ reaction. Ex- water, alcohol