Question

What is the stereochemical result of $S_N^1$ and $S_N^2$ reactions?

Answer 1

• $S_{N^1}$ reaction usually gives a mixture of products with inversion and retention of configuration. Thus it leads to racemization.
  
• $S_{N^2}$ reaction takes place through a back-side attack, which inverts the stereochemistry of the carbon atom i.e., a complete inversion of configuration takes place.