Question detail
Describe the mechanism of nucleophilic substitution when a halogenoalkane reacts with hydroxide ions (OH-).
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
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exam_style
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Topic
Halogenoalkanes
Question
Describe the mechanism of nucleophilic substitution when a halogenoalkane reacts with hydroxide ions (OH-).
Answer
In nucleophilic substitution, the hydroxide ion acts as a nucleophile and attacks the carbon atom bonded to the halogen. This leads to the displacement of the halogen atom, forming an alcohol and a halide ion.
Explanation
This answer demonstrates an understanding of the nucleophilic substitution mechanism, specifically how hydroxide ions interact with halogenoalkanes. It tests the student's ability to outline the process and identify the roles of the reactants involved.
Common mistake
Understanding Nucleophilic Substitution
Students often confuse the roles of nucleophiles and electrophiles in nucleophilic substitution mechanisms.
To clarify, remember that nucleophiles are electron-rich species that donate a pair of electrons to form a bond, while electrophiles are electron-deficient species that accept electron pairs. For example, in the reaction of a halogenoalkane with OH-, the hydroxide ion (OH-) acts as the nucleophile, attacking the carbon atom bonded to the halogen, which is the electrophile due to its partial positive charge.
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