Question 1
Which of the following statements is true of polar aprotic solvents?
◦ They are capable of hydrogen bonding.
◦ They are relatively uncommon.
◦ They can increase the rate of S
N2 reactions by orders of magnitude.
◦ They favor S
N1 reactions.
Question 2
Why do polar aprotic solvents favor S
N2 reactions?
◦
Polar aprotic solvents can't stabilize anions and therefore nucleophiles are more reactive.
◦ Protic solvents destabilize nucleophiles and that reduces the likelihood of reaction.
◦ Hydrogen bonding stabilizes the reaction intermediates.
◦ Hydrogen bonding stabilizes the leaving group.