Question

What solvent is best for ${\mathbf{E}}_{\mathbf{2}}$ reaction?

Answer 1

${\mathbf{E}}_{\mathbf{2}}$ reaction:

• ${\mathbf{E}}_{\mathbf{2}}$ mechanism or reaction refers to a bimolecular elimination which is basically a one-step mechanism and is usually favored by strong bases.
• ${\mathbf{E}}_{\mathbf{2}}$ reaction is preferred by polar solvents (polar protic) that are capable of Hydrogen bonding.
• Some of the common examples of polar protic solvents include alcohol and water.
• Let, us have a look at the mechanism for ${\mathbf{E}}_{\mathbf{2}}$ reaction:

Hence, the solvent that we use here is a “polar protic solvent”.like water, ethanol, methanol, ammonia, acetic acid, etc,