Question

What are SN₁ and SN₂ reactions?

Answer 1

SN₁ reaction

• SN₁ stands for Substitution nucleophilic unimolecular reaction.
• SN₁ reactions are generally carried out in polar protic solvents such as water, and alcohol.
• In this reaction, the rate of reaction depends upon the concentration of only one reactant.
• This reaction occurs in two steps as shown by the example given below:-
• In the first step formation of carbocations takes place.
• The carbocation thus formed is then attacked by the nucleophile in step2 to complete the reaction.

SN₂ reaction

• SN₂ stands for Substitution nucleophilic bimolecular reaction.
• In this reaction, the rate of reaction depends upon the concentration of both reactants.
• It follows second-order kinetics.
• This reaction occurs in one step as shown by the example given below:-
• In this reaction, the formation of the bond and cleavage of the bond occurs simultaneously.