Which of the following statements correctly describe(s)E1 reactions of alkyl halides (RX)?
I.Rate = k[base]
II.Rate = k[base][RX]
III.Rate = k[RX]
IV.The reactions occur in two distinct steps.
V.Rearrangements are sometimes seen.
A)II and IV
B)III and V
C)I,IV,and V
D)I only
E)III,IV,and V

Question

Which of the following statements correctly describe(s)E1 reactions of alkyl halides (RX)? 
I.Rate = k[base]
II.Rate = k[base][RX]
III.Rate = k[RX]
IV.The reactions occur in two distinct steps.
V.Rearrangements are sometimes seen.
A)II and IV
B)III and V
C)I,IV,and V
D)I only
E)III,IV,and V

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

E1 reactions of alkyl halides involve a two-step mechanism: first, the leaving group departs, forming a carbocation; then, a base deprotonates the carbocation. The rate-determining step is the formation of the carbocation, so the rate depends only on the concentration of the alkyl halide ([RX]), making statement III correct. The two-step nature of the reaction is described in statement IV. Rearrangements can occur during the formation of the carbocation intermediate, as described in statement V, to form a more stable carbocation.

Which of the Following Statements Correctly Describe(s)E1 Reactions of Alkyl