Why does 2-bromo-2-methylpropane hydrolyse mainly by an SN1 mechanism?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. It forms a stable tertiary carbocation, and the bulky groups hinder backside attack
- Step 1: The tertiary carbocation is stabilised by three alkyl groups. Step 2. Three methyl groups block approach from the back, so SN2 is unlikely. Answer: It forms a stable tertiary carbocation, and the bulky groups hinder backside attack. Why not the others: the carbon is tertiary, not primary; primary carbocations are unstable; the C-Br bond is polar.
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