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🧪 Chemistry  ·  Haloalkanes & Haloarenes  ·  NEET & JEE

In the reaction: R-X + KCN → R-CN, which type of reaction is this?

Answer: SN2 substitution.

  • A SN1 substitution
  • B SN2 substitution
  • C Elimination
  • D Electrophilic substitution

Correct answer: B. SN2 substitution

Explanation: CN⁻ is a good nucleophile; it attacks the primary haloalkane from the back in a concerted single step, which is an SN2 mechanism.

SN2: one stepNu-CX-backside attackNuC+ X-Inversion of configuration(Walden inversion)SN1: two stepsCX-slow: leaving group exits+CcarbocationNu-Planar intermediate givesracemisation (both faces attacked)

SN2 proceeds in a single step with backside attack and inversion of configuration, while SN1 forms a planar carbocation intermediate first, leading to racemisation.

Concept context

Study carbon-halogen compounds: how they are made, how they react via SN1/SN2 and elimination, their stereochemistry, and their environmental impact.

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