The hydrolysis of tert-butyl chloride in aqueous solution follows which rate law? Choose the correct option.
Answer
rate = k[tert-butyl chloride]
The correct answer is rate = k[tert-butyl chloride] — Write the rate law as rate = k[tert-butyl chloride].
Step-by-step solution
- Recognize that tert-butyl chloride undergoes an SN1 reaction in water.
- In SN1, the rate-determining step is the formation of the carbocation after loss of Cl⁻.
- The rate therefore depends only on the concentration of the alkyl halide.
- Write the rate law as rate = k[tert-butyl chloride].
Common mistake: Including the concentration of water in the rate expression.
Concept tested: Rate law for SN1 reaction
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