What is the main mechanism for the reaction of 2-bromobutane with sodium hydroxide in ethanol?

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Q: What is the main mechanism for the reaction of 2-bromobutane with sodium hydroxide in ethanol?

Solution: The reaction proceeds via an SN2 mechanism due to the primary nature of the substrate and the strong nucleophile (OH-).

Steps: 6

Step 1: Identify the reactants. We have 2-bromobutane and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) in ethanol.
Step 2: Recognize that 2-bromobutane is a secondary alkyl halide.
Step 3: Understand that sodium hydroxide provides hydroxide ions (OH-), which are strong nucleophiles.
Step 4: Recall that SN2 reactions involve a nucleophile attacking the carbon atom bonded to the leaving group (bromine in this case).
Step 5: Since 2-bromobutane is a secondary substrate, it can undergo an SN2 reaction, but it is less favorable than primary substrates.
Step 6: Conclude that the reaction will proceed via an SN2 mechanism because the strong nucleophile (OH-) can effectively attack the carbon and displace the bromine.