NEETChemistryHaloalkanes and Haloarenes
What effect do bulky substituents have on the rate of S N 2 reactions?
Options
- AThey have no effect.
- BThey increase the rate.
- CThey decrease the rate.
- DThey reverse the reaction.
Correct answer
C. They decrease the rate.
Step-by-step solution
Bulky substituents on or near the carbon atom hinder the approaching nucleophiles, causing a dramatic inhibiting effect and decreasing the rate of SN2 reactions.