Question

The following mechanism has been proposed for the conversion of tert-butyl bromide to tert-butyl alcohol in aqueous solution: step 1: (CH3)3CBr (CH3)3C Br- step 2: (CH3)3C OH- (CH3)3COH (a) Identify the molecularity of each step in the mechanism. step 1 unimolecular step 2 bimolecular (b) Write the equation for the net reaction. Use the smallest integer coefficients possible. If a box is not needed, leave it blank. (c) Identify any intemediates in this mechanism. Intermediate: Enter formula. If none, leave box blank:

Answer 1

Answer:

See explanation

Explanation:

The first step in this reaction is a unimolecular reaction. It involves the formation of the carbocation. This is so because tertiary alkyl halides only undergo substitution by SN1 mechanism due to sterric crowding.

The second step in the reaction is bi molecular. In this step, the carbocation now combines with the OH^- to yield the alcohol.

Net equation of the reaction is;

(CH3)3CBr + OH^- -------> (CH3)3COH + Br^-

The intermediate here is the carbocation,  (CH3)3C^+