What is the difference between Sn1 and Sn2 reactions?

Both Sn1 and Sn2 reactions are nucleophilic substitution reactions. Sn1 reactions proceed via 2 steps. An example of this is the substitution of a halogen group such as bromine with an OH- group forming an alcohol. In this case the bromine group would leave the molecule first then the OH- group would attack. This is like waiting for someone to get up of a chair before sitting down on that chair. An Sn2 reaction proceeds via 1 step. The OH- group attacks the molecule whilst the halogen is still attached and causes the halogen to he pushed off the molecule. Again this is like pushing someone off a chair whlist you sit down.

JS
Answered by Joseph S. Chemistry tutor

6834 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

At what temperature would 0.05 moles of nitrogen gas occupy 1000cm^3 at 50kPa?


outline the mechanism for the nitration of methyl benzoate and show how sulfuric acid behaves as a catalyst


How do you work out the oxidation number of a atom in a compound?


Explain why compounds of Fe^2+ are coloured in solution. (4 marks)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning