Organic Chemistry: Sn1E1 Reactions

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.