Question

Alkyl halides undergoing nucleophilic bimolecular substitution reaction involve:

• A. retention of configuration
• B. formation of racemic mixture
• C. inversion of configuration
• D. formation of carbocation

Hint:

In SN2 reactions, the configuration of the carbon center is inverted due to backside attack by the nucleophile.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Addressing this question requires knowledge of nucleophilic bimolecular substitution reactions (S_N2) in alkyl halides.

1. S_N2 Mechanism Explained:
In an S_N2 reaction, the nucleophile strikes the carbon atom attached to the leaving group from the opposing side of the leaving group. This leads to the simultaneous departure of the leaving group and the formation of a new bond with the nucleophile.

2. Configuration Inversion:
The nucleophile's attack is a backside assault on the carbon. This action causes the configuration at a chiral center to flip; an "R" configuration will become "S," and an "S" configuration will become "R."

3. Summary:
Alkyl halides undergoing nucleophilic bimolecular substitution reactions (S_N2) experience a change in configuration at the carbon undergoing substitution.

Final Answer:
The accurate choice is (C) inversion of configuration.