In the addition reaction of HI to 2-methyl-2-butene, what is the first step?
A) attack of 2-methyl-2-butene initiated by an iodide ion
B) attack of 2-methyl-2-butene initiated by an iodine atom
C) isomerization of 2-iodo-2-methylbutene
D) formation of a carbocation at carbon two (C-2)
E) formation of carbocation at carbon three (C-3)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The first step in the addition of HI to 2-methyl-2-butene is the formation of a carbocation at carbon two (C-2). This is because the proton from HI adds to the carbon-carbon double bond, forming a tertiary carbocation intermediate at C-2.

In the Addition Reaction of HI to 2-Methyl-2-Butene, What Is