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Correct Answer: A
Correct Answer: A
Method / Topic: Organic Chemistry
The correct option matches the required rule and the given information.
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Correct Answer: A
Method / Topic: Organic Chemistry
An SN2 reaction occurs through backside attack in one concerted step. Backside approach forces the tetrahedral center to invert, like an umbrella turning inside out. Thus an optically pure substrate gives predominantly the inverted substitution product, assuming priorities are evaluated correctly. This conclusion follows from electron flow, functional-group behavior, and the stated experimental conditions. For MCAT organic chemistry, first mark the nucleophile, electrophile, leaving group, and any resonance-stabilized intermediate; then track bonds rather than memorizing a product name. Check stereochemistry, charge, and carbon count before choosing an
, and interpret evidence without overclaiming. Always reconcile the proposed structure with every observation in the
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PASSAGE 2 — SUBSTITUTION AT A CHIRAL CENTER A researcher studies the reaction of optically pure (R)-2-bromobutane with sodium ethoxide in ethanol. At low temperature, substitution competes with elimination. In a separate trial, the same alkyl halide is treated with water in a polar protic solvent and allowed to react through a carbocation intermediate. Products are analyzed by polarimetry and gas chromatography. QUESTION 4: If substitution occurs by an SN2 mechanism at carbon 2, the major substitution product will show
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Correct Answer: A
Method / Topic: Organic Chemistry
The correct option matches the required rule and the given information.
Short Explanation
Detailed Explanation
Correct Answer: A
Method / Topic: Organic Chemistry
An SN2 reaction occurs through backside attack in one concerted step. Backside approach forces the tetrahedral center to invert, like an umbrella turning inside out. Thus an optically pure substrate gives predominantly the inverted substitution product, assuming priorities are evaluated correctly. This conclusion follows from electron flow, functional-group behavior, and the stated experimental conditions. For MCAT organic chemistry, first mark the nucleophile, electrophile, leaving group, and any resonance-stabilized intermediate; then track bonds rather than memorizing a product name. Check stereochemistry, charge, and carbon count before choosing an
, and interpret evidence without overclaiming. Always reconcile the proposed structure with every observation in the
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