Which of the following is the most correct electron displacement for a nucleophilic reaction to take place?
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Answer
(1) [figure]
Solution
In CH3-CH=CH-CH2-Cl, the CH3 group pushes electrons towards the double bond (+I effect).
For nucleophilic substitution the C–Cl bond must break heterolytically with the bond pair going to Cl (Cl⊖ leaves).
At the same time the π electrons of C=C shift towards the C-CH2 bond, forming the new C=C
⇒ CH3- CH-CH=CH2, an allylic carbocation further stabilised by the +I effect of CH3, which is then attacked by the nucleophile.
Both displacements (π electrons → C–C bond, and C–Cl bond pair → Cl) are shown only in option (1).
Answer: (1)