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🧪 Chemistry  ·  Haloalkanes & Haloarenes  ·  NEET & JEE

The Finkelstein reaction converts an alkyl chloride to an alkyl iodide using:

Answer: NaI in dry acetone.

  • A AgF in MeOH
  • B NaI in dry acetone
  • C KBr in water
  • D HI gas

Correct answer: B. NaI in dry acetone

Explanation: Finkelstein reaction: RCl + NaI → RI + NaCl. The reaction is driven forward because NaCl is insoluble in dry acetone and precipitates out.

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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