MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #690

A student is studying the hydrolysis of tertiary butyl bromide in a polar solvent. This reaction mechanism is characterized by:

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #690

  1. Question 1

    Q1. A student is studying the hydrolysis of tertiary butyl bromide in a polar solvent. This reaction mechanism is characterized by:

    • A) A single concerted step
    • B) Two steps with a carbocation
    • C) Two steps with a carbanion
    • D) Three steps including protonation

    Answer: Two steps with a carbocation

    Explanation: SN1 reactions involve a two-step process where the first step (carbocation formation) is slow and rate-determining; the second step is fast.