In an reaction at a chiral carbon, the product has
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. inversion of configuration
- Step 1: In a bimolecular nucleophilic substitution () mechanism, the incoming nucleophile attacks the electrophilic carbon from the rear side directly opposite the leaving group.
- Step 2: This backside attack causes a concerted displacement that flips the three remaining tetrahedral bonds like an umbrella in high wind.
- Step 3: Consequently, the reaction proceeds with complete inversion of configuration (Walden inversion).
Answer
inversion of configuration.
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