MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #650

A sample of optically active 2-iodobutane reacts with aqueous NaOH via a single-step mechanism. What happens to the optical configuration of the product?

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #650

  1. Question 1

    Q1. A sample of optically active 2-iodobutane reacts with aqueous NaOH via a single-step mechanism. What happens to the optical configuration of the product?

    • A) Walden inversion
    • B) Racemization
    • C) Retention of configuration
    • D) Disproportionation

    Answer: Walden inversion

    Explanation: SN2 reactions always result in the inversion of configuration at the chiral center; racemization is wrong because it is characteristic of SN1.