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

6956 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why does Phosphorus have a higher melting point than Chlorine?


ii) The maximum permitted sulfate concentration in water is 250mg dm^-3, 200cm^3 of aqueous BaCl2 is added to 300cm^3 of water at the maximum permitted sulfate level, and a white precipitate formed. Calculate the minimum conc. (mol dm^3)of the BaCl2


How do mass spectrometers measure the mass of a compound?


Define first ionisation energy


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