SN1 Reaction

The video tutorial explains the SN1 reaction, a type of nucleophilic substitution. It highlights the key differences between SN1 and SN2 reactions, focusing on the two-step mechanism of SN1. The first step involves the leaving group departing, forming a carbocation intermediate. This transition changes the carbon's hybridization from SP3 to SP2, resulting in a trigonal planar geometry. The nucleophile can then attack from either side, potentially creating a racemic mixture if a chiral center is formed. The video emphasizes the importance of understanding the transition state and molecular orbitals involved in the reaction.

How does the trigonal planar geometry of the carbocation affect nucleophile attack?

What is a racemic mixture and how is it related to the SN1 reaction?