MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #612

An SN2 reaction is performed in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) instead of ethanol. Why does the rate increase dramatically in this aprotic solvent?

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #612

  1. Question 1

    Q1. An SN2 reaction is performed in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) instead of ethanol. Why does the rate increase dramatically in this aprotic solvent?

    • A) Nucleophile solvation
    • B) Carbocation stability
    • C) Transition state energy
    • D) Leaving group ability

    Answer: Nucleophile solvation

    Explanation: Aprotic solvents like DMSO do not form hydrogen bonds with nucleophiles, making them more reactive; carbocation stability is tempting but irrelevant to SN2.