Question

Explain S_N2 mechanism with suitable examples.

Answer 1

• S_N2 reaction means bimolecular nucleophilic substitution reaction of second order.
• The rate of S_N2 reaction depends upon the concentration of both alkyl halides and the nucleophile. 
• This reaction involves the formation of a transition state in which both the reactant molecules are partially bonded to each other. The attack of nucleophile occurs from the back side. 
• The carbon at which substitution occurs has inverted configuration during the course of reaction just as an umbrella has the tendency to invert in a wind-storm. This inversion of configuration is called walden inversion.