Substrate: Chiral Tertiary Alkyl Halide
Reaction Coordinate Diagram

Concept Quiz

The SN1 Mechanism

The SN1 (Substitution Nucleophilic Unimolecular) reaction is a stepwise mechanism heavily dependent on the stability of the intermediate carbocation. Because it involves a planar intermediate, the nucleophile can attack from either side, destroying the original stereochemistry.

Rate $= k [\text{Substrate}]$
(Independent of Nucleophile)
Racemization:
The Leaving Group departs to form an $sp^2$ hybridized, trigonal planar Carbocation with an empty, unhybridized p-orbital. The nucleophile has an equal 50/50 chance of attacking the top lobe (Retention) or the bottom lobe (Inversion), resulting in a racemic mixture.