Question

Compounds X and Y are both C6H13Cl compounds formed in the radical chlorination of 3-methylpentane. Both X and Y undergo base-promoted E2 elimination to give a mixture of alkenes.In water X and Y each react to form a mixture of substitution and elimination products; however, X reacts much faster than does Y.What is the structure of Y?

Answer 1

Y is a 3-chloro-3-methylpentane.

The structure is shown in the figure attached.

Step-by-step explanation:

The radical chlorination of 3-methylpentane can lead to a tertiary substituted carbon (Y) and to a secondary one (X).

The E2 elimination mechanism, as shown in the figure, will happen with a simulyaneous attack from the base and elimination of the chlorine. This means that primary and secondary substracts undergo the E2 mechanism faster than tertiary substracts.