Question

multiple choice 2 points
dehydrohalogenation of an alkyl halide by treating it with a strong base to yield an alkene product typically occurs by what reaction mechanism?
sn2
e1
sn1
e2
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Explanation:

Dehydrohalogenation of an alkyl halide to yield an alkene with a strong base typically occurs via the E2 mechanism. In E2, the base abstracts a proton, and the leaving group (halide) departs simultaneously in a single - step, concerted process. This is favored by strong bases.

• \(S_N2\) is a substitution mechanism, not an elimination mechanism for forming alkenes.
• \(E1\) involves a two - step process (formation of a carbocation first) and is more favored by weak bases.
• \(S_N1\) is also a substitution mechanism.

Answer:

E2