The SN2 reaction involves back-side attack and therefore results in a "Walden Inversion." For which one of the substrates shown would you be able to demonstrate that such back-side attack with "Walden Inversion" has infact occurred?

Question

The SN2 reaction involves back-side attack and therefore results in a "Walden Inversion." For which one of the substrates shown would you be able to demonstrate that such back-side attack with "Walden Inversion" has infact occurred? (A) 1-bromopropane (B) 2-bromobutane (C) 3-bromopentane (D) Methyl bromide

Tardigrade Admin · Accepted Answer

To observe inversion, the substitution must occur at a chiral center.

Q. The SN2 reaction involves back-side attack and therefore results in a "Walden Inversion." For which one of the substrates shown would you be able to demonstrate that such back-side attack with "Walden Inversion" has infact occurred?

1-bromopropane

2-bromobutane

3-bromopentane

Methyl bromide

To observe inversion, the substitution must occur at a chiral center.

Q. The S_N2 reaction involves back-side attack and therefore results in a "Walden Inversion." For which one of the substrates shown would you be able to demonstrate that such back-side attack with "Walden Inversion" has infact occurred?