SN1 and SN2 Nucleophilic Substitution Mechanisms

ChemistryOrganic ChemistryAges 17–18

Substitution reactions of halogenoalkanes can follow two pathways: the one-step SN2, where the nucleophile attacks from behind as the leaving group departs, or the two-step SN1, which proceeds through a carbocation. Choose the carbon's degree and the solvent to see which mechanism dominates, alongside an energy diagram showing the transition state and activation energy.