Summary of "Sn2 Reaction Problems"

Key Concepts

SN2 Reaction: A type of nucleophilic substitution reaction where the nucleophile attacks the substrate, resulting in the inversion of configuration at the chiral carbon.
Reactivity of Alkyl Groups:
- Methyl groups are the most reactive.
- Secondary groups are less reactive.
- Tertiary groups do not undergo SN2 reactions.
- Vinyl groups (double-bonded carbons) do not react in SN2 due to steric hindrance.
Leaving Groups:
- Best Leaving Groups include OTOS, OTS, and OTF.
- Other good Leaving Groups are I, Br, Cl, and F.
Nucleophiles:
- The strength of the nucleophile affects the reaction rate.
- Good Nucleophiles lead to faster reactions.
Solvent Effects:
- Polar Aprotic Solvents are preferred for SN2 reactions.
- Solvents containing OH or NH are not suitable.
Stereochemistry:
- SN2 reactions result in complete inversion of configuration at the chiral center.
- If a carbon is chiral and the nucleophile attacks, the configuration must be shown accurately.
- Non-chiral carbons do not require inversion to be shown since they do not affect Stereochemistry.

Construct a master chart to organize and compare SN1, SN2, E1, and E2 reactions.
Identify the chiral centers and determine the outcome of the nucleophilic attack (inversion or retention).
Use wedges and dashes to represent the Stereochemistry accurately, especially when dealing with chiral centers.
Recognize that non-chiral carbons do not necessitate showing inversion.