Question

In the following pairs which halogen compound undergoes faster SN2 reaction ? Why ?
(CH3)3CCl AND CH3Cl

Answer 1

Ch3Cl will undergo faster , as the biggest barrier for an SN2 rxn is steric hindrance by neighboring groups , as H atoms are very tiny they do not sterically hinder the attack of nucleophile

Whereas (CH3)3CCL has three methyl groups attached to the Alpha carbon. Hence it will undergo SN 1 rxn