Answer: A racemic mixture of (R)- and (S)-2-butanol.
- A Mainly the (R)-2-butanol product with complete retention of configuration
- B Mainly the (S)-2-butanol product via complete inversion of configuration
- C A racemic mixture of (R)- and (S)-2-butanol
- D No observable reaction since dilute NaOH cannot attack a secondary halide
Correct answer: C. A racemic mixture of (R)- and (S)-2-butanol
Explanation: SN1 forms a planar carbocation intermediate; the nucleophile can attack from either face, giving a racemic (50:50) mixture of enantiomers.
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.