Question

$C_6{H}_5-\stackrel{\underset{|}{C{H}_3}}{\underset{\stackrel{|}{H}}{C}}-Br+H_{2}O⟶HO-\stackrel{\underset{|}{C{H}_3}}{\underset{\stackrel{|}{H}}{C}}-C_6{H}_5+HBr$
The above reaction results in 98% racemization. The reaction mainly follows

• A. ${S_N}^1$ mechanism
• B. ${S_N}^2$ mechanism
• C. $E^1$ mechanism
• D. $E^2$ mechanism

Answer 1

The correct option is A ${S_N}^1$ mechanism

The outgoing nucleophile does not leave the reactant and therefore, attack is mainly from backside .