Question

Which of the following most readily undergoes an E2 reaction with sodium ethoxide (NaOCH2CH3)?A) (CH3)CF.

B) (CH3)CCl.
C) (CH3)CBr.
D) (CH3)CI.

Answer 1

(CH3)CI

Step-by-step explanation:

As we move down the group, the halogen atoms become more easily polarizable and the C-X bond is more easily broken.

Recall that E2 mechanism has to do with synchronous proton abstraction and loss of the halogen.

These occur faster with (CH3)CI than when the C-X bond involves other halogens.