MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #651

Which of the following correctly ranks alkyl halides in order of their decreasing ease of undergoing an SN2 reaction based on steric factors?

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #651

  1. Question 1

    Q1. Which of the following correctly ranks alkyl halides in order of their decreasing ease of undergoing an SN2 reaction based on steric factors?

    • A) Tertiary > Secondary > Primary
    • B) Secondary > Primary > Tertiary
    • C) Tertiary > Primary > Secondary
    • D) Primary > Secondary > Tertiary

    Answer: Primary > Secondary > Tertiary

    Explanation: Primary alkyl halides react fastest in SN2 due to minimal steric hindrance; tertiary halides are wrong because they are too bulky for backside attack.