Understanding SN2 Reactions

What is a nucleophile in the context of nucleophilic substitution?

• An atom or molecule with electron deficiency

• An atom or molecule with excess electron density

• A molecule that donates protons

• A molecule that accepts protons

In an SN2 reaction, what role does the leaving group play?

• It forms a new bond with the nucleophile

• It departs with a pair of electrons

• It stabilizes the transition state

• It donates electrons to the nucleophile

What is the product when chloromethane reacts with a hydroxide ion in an SN2 reaction?

• Methane

• Chloroform

• Methanol

• Ethanol

What do electron-pushing arrows represent in reaction mechanisms?

• The movement of neutrons

• The movement of atoms

• The movement of electrons

• The movement of protons

What does it mean for an SN2 reaction to be stereospecific?

• It produces a single stereoisomer

• It does not involve stereochemistry

• It produces multiple stereoisomers

• It involves a racemic mixture

In an SN2 reaction, from which direction does the nucleophile attack?

• From the opposite side of the leaving group

• From below the substrate

• From above the substrate

• From the same side as the leaving group

What is the significance of the transition state in an SN2 reaction?

• It is the point where the reaction stops

• It is the highest energy point that must be overcome

• It is the point where the reaction is fastest

• It is the lowest energy point in the reaction

What does the '2' in SN2 stand for?

• The number of steps in the reaction

• The number of molecules involved in the transition state

• The number of reactants

• The number of products formed

What geometry does the transition state of an SN2 reaction resemble?

• Linear

• Trigonal bipyramidal

• Trigonal planar

• Tetrahedral

Why is the SN2 reaction considered a concerted reaction?

• Because it occurs in a single step

• Because it requires a catalyst

• Because it forms multiple products

• Because it involves multiple steps