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JEE Main levelSingle correct optionDifficulty 2 of 3o3069

Each of the following bromides is treated separately with in acetone under identical conditions. Which one reacts fastest by the SN2 pathway?

  1. Abromocyclopropane
  2. Bbromocyclohexane
  3. C(bromomethyl)cyclohexane
  4. D1-bromo-1-methylcyclohexane

Answer: C

(Bromomethyl)cyclohexane is a primary halide, and the beta-branching from the ring is modest. Bromocyclohexane is secondary and hindered. 1-Bromo-1-methylcyclohexane is tertiary and does not undergo SN2. Bromocyclopropane is very slow because the SN2 transition state requires a planar, sp2-like carbon with 120 degree angles, which adds large angle strain to the three-membered ring.
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