In the context of organic chemistry, what does the term 'gradualism' refer to, and when is it most likely to apply?

• A. Gradualism refers to the slow and steady change in the concentration of reactants, and it is most likely to apply in reactions with high $E\_a$ (activation energy).
• B. Gradualism refers to the gradual increase in temperature during a reaction, and it is most likely to apply in exothermic reactions.
• C. Gradualism refers to the slow diffusion of reactants in a solvent, and it is most likely to apply in reactions occurring in non-polar solvents.
• D. Gradualism refers to the stepwise mechanism of a reaction, and it is most likely to apply in multi-step reactions.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the term 'gradualism' in the context of organic chemistry. It generally refers to a process that occurs in a series of small, incremental steps rather than a single, rapid change.
2. Consider the options provided: changes in concentration, temperature, diffusion, and stepwise mechanisms. Each of these describes a different aspect of chemical reactions.
3. Evaluate the context in which 'gradualism' is most applicable. In organic chemistry, reactions often proceed through a series of intermediate steps, especially in complex reactions.
4. Identify that 'gradualism' is most relevant to multi-step reactions, where the reaction mechanism involves several distinct stages or intermediates.
5. Conclude that the correct interpretation of 'gradualism' in this context is the stepwise mechanism of a reaction, which is characteristic of multi-step reactions.