Write the mechanism of the following reaction:
$n-BuBr + KCN \xrightarrow{EtOH/H_2O} n-BuCN$

Vedclass pdf generator app on play store
Vedclass iOS app on app store
(N/A) The given reaction is:
$n-BuBr + KCN \xrightarrow{EtOH/H_2O} n-BuCN$
This reaction proceeds via an $S_{N}2$ mechanism.
$1$. The nucleophile $CN^{-}$ attacks the electrophilic carbon atom of $n-butyl$ bromide $(n-BuBr)$ from the side opposite to the leaving group $(Br^{-})$.
$2$. This results in the formation of a transition state where the $C-CN$ bond is partially formed and the $C-Br$ bond is partially broken.
$3$. Finally,the $Br^{-}$ ion leaves,resulting in the formation of $n-butyl$ cyanide $(n-BuCN)$.
$4$. The $CN^{-}$ ion is an ambident nucleophile,but in the presence of $KCN$,the attack occurs primarily through the carbon atom due to the higher nucleophilicity of the carbon center.

Explore More

Similar Questions

Alkyl halide is converted into alkyl isocyanide by reaction with

The decreasing order of reactivity of the following organic molecules towards $AgNO_3$ solution is:

When $E_2$ competition is not a concern,which of the following is the best nucleophile for an $S_N2$ reaction?

Difficult
View Solution

In which of the following compounds,the $C-Cl$ bond ionization shall give the most stable carbocation?

Identify the major product for the following reaction:
$1$-fluoro-$1$-methylcyclohexane $\xrightarrow[\Delta]{Alc. KOH}$ ?

Difficult
View Solution

Vedclass Products

For Students

Vedclass Test Series

Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.

Start Free Trial
For Teachers

Exam Paper Generator

Generate Set A/B/C/D exam papers from 7.5L+ questions in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.

Try Free
For Institutes

Online Exam Module

Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.

See Demo