"SN1 Mechanism: A Two-Step Nucleophilic Substitution Reaction with Carbocation Intermediate Formation and Nucleophilic Attack"
The SN1 mechanism is a type of nucleophilic substitution reaction that involves a two-step process: Step 1: Formation of a Carbocation Intermediate 1. *Leaving group departure*: The leaving group (such as a halide ion) departs, forming a carbocation intermediate. 2. *Carbocation formation*: The carbocation intermediate is formed, which is a planar, sp2-hybridized carbon atom. Step 2: Nucleophilic Attack 1. *Nucleophile approach*: A nucleophile (such as a water molecule or an alkoxide ion) approaches the carbocation intermediate. 2. *Bond formation*: The nucleophile forms a bond with the carbocation intermediate, resulting in the formation of the product. Characteristics of SN1 Mechanism: 1. *Rate-determining step*: The rate-determining step is the formation of the carbocation intermediate (Step 1). 2. *Stereochemistry*: The SN1 mechanism results in the loss of stereochemistry, as the carbocation intermediate can be attacked by the nucleophile from either side. 3. *Rearrangement*: ...