Question

Which of the SN1 and SN2 mechanisms is more affected by the solvent used in the

reaction and why?​

Answer 1

Answer:

SN1 • Polar solvent stabilizes transition state and carbocation intermediate. ... SN2 • Need polar solvent to dissolve nucleophile. • Protic solvent slows rate by solvating nucleophile • Aprotic solvent increases rate by binding cation and thus freeing nucleophile.

Answer 2

Answer:

I think this may help you

Explanation:

In SN1 reaction carbocation formation is involved. So, a polar solvent is necessary to stabilize the intermediate. The medium with high dielectric constant stabilizes the carbocation more.

SN2 reaction does not involve charges. If a protic medium is used it stabilizes both reactants and extra energy should be spent to break their stabilization, increasing the activation energy of the reaction.

Reactants must be properly dissolved in the medium so, polar aprotic medium is used.