What are SN2 Reactions?
In an SN2 reaction, a strong nucleophile attacks the carbon atom to which the leaving group is attached, forming a new bond to the carbon via a backside attack. In contrast, the leaving group detaches from the reaction center in a concerted fashion. This reaction is characterized by its bimolecular nature, as both the nucleophile and the substrate are involved in the rate-determining step.
Example of SN2 Reaction
An example of an SN2 reaction is the saponification of a triglyceride, which forms soaps. In this reaction, a triglyceride reacts with an alkali base (like sodium or potassium hydroxide) to produce glycerol. The reaction can be represented as follows:
Triglycerides + Alkali Base —–> Glycerol + Soap
Some examples of SN2 reaction are added in the image below,
Examples of SN2 Reactions
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