Final answer:
The statement that an SN2 reaction involves the formation of a carbocation intermediate is false; in SN2 reactions, the nucleophile and substrate react simultaneously without forming intermediates.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the SN₂ reaction involves the formation of a carbocation as an intermediate is false. Unlike SN1 reactions, SN2 react on a bimolecular basis where the nucleophile attacks the electrophile simultaneously as the leaving group departs. Consequently, there are no intermediates, such as carbocations, formed in SN2 mechanisms. In an SN2 reaction, the steric hindrance plays a significant role, meaning that methyl and primary substrates react faster than secondary ones, and tertiary substrates do not normally undergo SN2 due to the steric hindrance preventing the nucleophile from approaching.