Question

In $S_{N}1$ (substitution nucleophilic unimolecular) reaction, the racemization takes place. It is due to

• A. inversion of configuration
• B. retention of configuration
• C. both (a) and (b)
• D. neither (a) nor (b).

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

In $S_{N}1$ mechanism, the intermediate formed is carbocation. As carbocation is planar thus the incoming nucleophile can attack from either side. Thus, both retention and inversion takes place resulting in racemization.