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Organic Chemistry: Sn1E1 Reactions

Terms

Bimolecular - Involving two molecules. In this SparkNote, the term bimolecular is used to refer to S_N2 and E2 reactions. The rate-limiting transition states of both reactions involve two molecules.

Carbocation - A carbon that carries a positive charge. Carbocations are highly unstable and are prone to rearrangement. S_N1 and E1 reactions proceed through a common carbocation intermediate.

E1 - A reaction where a β -hydrogen is Eliminated to form a double bond. E1 reactions go through a carbocation intermediate. Somewhat similar to the E2 reaction.

S_N1 - A reaction in which a Nucleophile Substitutes for a leaving group. S_N1 . It goes through a carbocation intermediate.

Secondary - A secondary carbon has bonds to two other carbons.

Tertiary - A tertiary carbon has bonds to three other carbons.

Unimolecular - Involving one molecule. This term is used synonymously with the E1 and S_N1 reactions in this SparkNote. The rate-limiting transition states of both mechanisms involve one molecule.

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SN1 and E1 Reactions