Which compound undergoes the fastest S_N2 reaction with Na⁺ CH₃O⁻?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rate of an _N2 reaction is dependent on the stability of the carbocation intermediate formed. The more stable the carbocation, the faster the reaction. In this case, the carbocation intermediate is formed on the secondary carbon in all options. Option D has a more stable carbocation intermediate than options A, B, and E because the intermediate can be stabilized through resonance with the adjacent benzene ring. Option C has a similarly stabilized intermediate, but the presence of the bulky bromine group makes the reaction slower than option D.

Which Compound Undergoes the Fastest SN2 Reaction with Na+ CH3O−

Which Compound Undergoes the Fastest S_N2 Reaction with Na⁺ CH₃O⁻