Question detail
What is the primary reason for the difference in reaction rates between primary and tertiary halogenoalkanes in nucleophilic substitution reactions?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Halogenoalkanes
Question
- A. Primary halogenoalkanes have stronger carbon-halogen bonds than tertiary halogenoalkanes.
- B. Tertiary halogenoalkanes have more steric hindrance than primary halogenoalkanes.
- C. Primary halogenoalkanes react via elimination while tertiary halogenoalkanes react via substitution.
- D. Tertiary halogenoalkanes have lower bond enthalpy than primary halogenoalkanes.
Answer
Tertiary halogenoalkanes have more steric hindrance than primary halogenoalkanes.
Explanation
Tertiary halogenoalkanes are more hindered due to the presence of more alkyl groups around the carbon atom, making it harder for nucleophiles to attack. This steric hindrance slows down the reaction rate compared to primary halogenoalkanes, which are less hindered and allow easier nucleophilic attack.
Common mistake
Comparing Reaction Rates of Halogenoalkanes
Students often confuse the hydrolysis rates of different halogenoalkanes, thinking that all halogenoalkanes react at the same rate regardless of their structure.
To fix this, students should understand that the reaction rate in hydrolysis depends on the strength of the carbon-halogen bond. For example, primary halogenoalkanes react slower than tertiary ones due to bond enthalpy differences. Recognizing that stronger bonds require more energy to break will help in comparing reaction rates accurately.
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