SN1 nucleophilic substitution (unimolecular) (Rate = k[RX]: unimolecular; carbocation intermediate)
jee-mainjee-advancedneet-ug
Rate = k[RX] — unimolecular; carbocation intermediate
What each symbol means
| Symbol | What it stands for |
|---|---|
| k | Rate constant (depends on solvent, temperature) |
| RX | Alkyl halide (substrate) |
| [RX] | Molar concentration of substrate |
When to use this
Polar protic solvent favors ionization; 3° and resonance-stabilized 2° substrates react fastest. The nucleophile appears after the slow step, so rate is independent of [Nu⁻].