Energy Diagram of SN2 Reaction Mechanism
Energy diagram of an SN2 reaction mechanism shows a single curve since it is a single-step reaction. The products, CH3OH and Br–, are in a lower energy state compared to the reactants, CH3Br and OH–. The top of the curve represents the transition state, the highest-energy structure involved in the reaction.
Transition state involves partial, partially formed, and partially broken bonds and is very unstable with no appreciable lifetime. The transition state structure is usually shown in a square bracket with a double dagger.
Reaction process goes through the transition state, and the positions of the three hydrogens around carbon are all pushed to the other side for the product. The energy diagram indicates that the overall reaction is exothermic, and the products are more stable.
SN2 Reaction Mechanism
SN2 also called Substitution Nucleophilic Bimolecular reaction mechanism is an essential process in organic chemistry. It involves a nucleophile attacking the central atom while a leaving group is simultaneously displaced. The “SN” in SN2 stands for “substitution nucleophilic,” and the “2” indicates that the rate-determining step is bimolecular.
In this article, we will look into the SN2 reaction mechanism, its examples, energy diagrams, applications, etc.
Table of Content
- What are SN2 Reactions?
- SN2 Reaction Mechanism
- Energy Diagram of SN2 Reaction Mechanism
- Factors Affecting SN2 Reaction Mechanism
- Properties of SN2 Reaction Mechanism
- Stereochemistry of SN2 Reactions
- Difference Between SN1 and SN2 Reaction Mechanism