What is the main mechanism for the reaction of 1-bromopropane with sodium hydrox
Practice Questions
Q1
What is the main mechanism for the reaction of 1-bromopropane with sodium hydroxide in ethanol?
SN1
SN2
E1
E2
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
What is the main mechanism for the reaction of 1-bromopropane with sodium hydroxide in ethanol?
Step 1: Identify the reactants. We have 1-bromopropane (a primary alkyl halide) and sodium hydroxide (a strong base).
Step 2: Understand the type of reaction. This is a nucleophilic substitution reaction where the bromine atom is replaced by a hydroxide ion (OH-).
Step 3: Recognize the mechanism. Since 1-bromopropane is a primary alkyl halide, it will undergo the SN2 mechanism, which involves a single step.
Step 4: Describe the SN2 mechanism. In the SN2 mechanism, the nucleophile (OH-) attacks the carbon atom from the opposite side of the leaving group (Br).
Step 5: Explain the backside attack. The backside attack allows the nucleophile to push the leaving group (Br) off, resulting in the formation of propanol (an alcohol).
Step 6: Conclude the reaction. The final product of the reaction is propanol, and the mechanism is confirmed as SN2 due to the primary nature of 1-bromopropane.
