Question:
Why are tertiary alkyl halides inert towards \(SN^{2}\) mechanism?
Why are tertiary alkyl halides inert towards \(SN^{2}\) mechanism?
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In the SN2 reaction the nucleophile attacks from the back side, and three bulky alkyl groups block this approach.
Updated On: Nov 12, 2026
- Due to insolubility.
- Due to instability.
- Due to inductive effect.
- Due to steric hindrance.
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The Correct Option is D
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Understanding the Concept
An \(\text{S}_\text{N}2\) reaction proceeds in one step, where the nucleophile attacks the carbon from the side opposite to the leaving group.
Step 2: Tertiary halides
The carbon bearing the halogen in a tertiary alkyl halide carries three alkyl groups, which crowd the back side of the carbon.
Step 3: Conclusion
The nucleophile cannot approach easily because of this steric hindrance, so tertiary halides do not undergo \(\text{S}_\text{N}2\) and prefer \(\text{S}_\text{N}1\).
Final Answer:
The reason is steric hindrance. \[ \boxed{\text{(D) }\text{Due to steric hindrance.}} \]
An \(\text{S}_\text{N}2\) reaction proceeds in one step, where the nucleophile attacks the carbon from the side opposite to the leaving group.
Step 2: Tertiary halides
The carbon bearing the halogen in a tertiary alkyl halide carries three alkyl groups, which crowd the back side of the carbon.
Step 3: Conclusion
The nucleophile cannot approach easily because of this steric hindrance, so tertiary halides do not undergo \(\text{S}_\text{N}2\) and prefer \(\text{S}_\text{N}1\).
Final Answer:
The reason is steric hindrance. \[ \boxed{\text{(D) }\text{Due to steric hindrance.}} \]
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