Alkyl halides undergoing S _ N 2 reaction do inverse

Step-by-step solution

The S _ N 2 reaction mechanism involves a concerted process where the nucleophile attacks the electrophilic carbon atom from the side opposite to the leaving group. This backside attack leads to the transition state where the nucleophile and the leaving group are partially bonded to the central carbon atom. As the leaving group departs, the configuration of the chiral center is inverted, similar to an umbrella turning inside out in the wind. This phenomenon is known as the Walden inversion. Therefore, the S _ N 2 r