Deciphering Reaction Pathways: A Mechanistic Approach to SN1, SN2, E1, and E2 Reactions

Advanced Lecture: Mechanistic Mastery of Substitution and Elimination Reactions  

This lecture offers a systematic deep dive into the governing principles of nucleophilic substitution (SN1, SN2) and elimination (E1, E2) reactions. Key mechanistic insights include:

- Substrate Control: Reactivity trends across primary, secondary, and tertiary centers, driven by steric hindrance and carbocation stability.  

- Nucleophile vs. Base: How nucleophilicity and basicity influence reaction pathways and product distribution.  

- Solvent Effects: The contrasting roles of protic and aprotic solvents in stabilizing intermediates and transition states.  

- Thermodynamic Influence: Temperature-dependent shifts between substitution and elimination outcomes.

Tailored for advanced learners, this session integrates conceptual models with predictive strategies to master complex transformations in organic synthesis.