Nucleophilic substitution and elimination reactions often compete with one another.In general,which of the following would enhance the rate of the E2 reaction over the S_N2 reaction?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Branching at the α or β carbon would hinder the formation of the carbocation intermediate required for the SN1/SE1 reaction, favoring the E2 reaction. Using a weak nucleophile or weak base would have little effect on the reaction mechanism preference.

Nucleophilic Substitution and Elimination Reactions Often Compete with One Another