SN1 reactions involve a two-step mechanism where the rate-determining step is the formation of a carbocation intermediate. Understanding how carbocation stability influences reaction speed is key to predicting which substrate undergoes faster substitution. For example, tertiary carbons form more stable carbocations than primary or secondary ones, directly affecting the reaction rate.

Practice questions focus on comparing substrates like 1-chlorobutane versus 2-chlorobutane or 2-chloro-2-methylpropane versus 2-chlorobutane to analyze factors such as carbocation stability and steric effects. Skills include identifying the faster-reacting compound by applying concepts of carbocation formation, resonance, and inductive effects in SN1 mechanisms.

The SN1 Mechanism: Videos & Practice Problems

The SN1 Mechanism practice problems