MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #631

How does the choice of solvent differentiate the mechanism between a polar protic solvent like ethanol and a polar aprotic solvent like DMSO?

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #631

  1. Question 1

    Q1. How does the choice of solvent differentiate the mechanism between a polar protic solvent like ethanol and a polar aprotic solvent like DMSO?

    • A) Water favors SN2 by increasing the nucleophile's strength.
    • B) Ethanol favors SN2 by decreasing the activation energy.
    • C) DMSO favors SN2 by leaving the nucleophile 'naked' and reactive.
    • D) Acetone favors SN1 by stabilizing the leaving group anion.

    Answer: DMSO favors SN2 by leaving the nucleophile 'naked' and reactive.

    Explanation: Polar aprotic solvents like DMSO favor SN2 by not solvating the nucleophile, while protic solvents like water favor SN1 by stabilizing carbocations.