How can I recognize #"S"_N1# reactions?

1 Answer
anor277
Sep 1, 2017

Loss of optical activity......?

Explanation:

Preference for polar solvents.........?

Of course, when we use the term #S_N1# we refer to an arbitrary mechanism whose rate determining step is BOND-BREAKING, and presumed to occur thru the intermediacy of a three-membered carbocation.....i.e.

#R_1R_2R_3CX +NaOH rarr R_1R_2R_3C^+ + X^-#

The hypothetical #R_1R_2R_3C^+ # unit cannot support optical activity, and a homochiral halide should lead to a racemate on substitution.

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