The configuration is inverted during the SN₂ reaction as the attacking nucleophile attaches to the carbon, resembling an umbrella turning inside out in a strong wind. This inversion of configuration occurs in the transition state as the reaction progresses.

In the SN₂ reaction, the incoming nucleophile interacts with the alkyl halide, causing simultaneous breaking of the carbon-halide bond and formation of a new bond between carbon and the attacking nucleophile. The transition state involves the inversion of configuration as ...

The reaction between CH₃Cl and hydroxide ion follows second-order kinetics, indicating a bimolecular nucleophilic substitution (SN₂) reaction where the rate depends on the concentrations of both reactants.

Allylic halides have the halogen atom bonded to an sp³-hybridized carbon atom adjacent to a carbon-carbon double bond (C=C). The distinguishing feature is the location of the halogen atom in proximity to the double bond.

Alkyl halides are classified as primary, secondary, or tertiary based on the nature of the carbon atom to which the halogen is attached. The terms used for these classifications are 1° alkyl halide (primary), 2° alkyl halide (secondary), and 3° ...