Solvent choice is critical in substitution mechanisms. Which type of reaction is significantly accelerated by using a highly polar solvent like water or alcohol?
Q1. Solvent choice is critical in substitution mechanisms. Which type of reaction is significantly accelerated by using a highly polar solvent like water or alcohol?
Answer: SN1 reactions
Explanation: Polar solvents stabilize the carbocation intermediate, increasing the rate of SN1. SN2 is tempting but it is generally slowed by polar protic solvents.