Question

E2 reaction transition state of 4 atoms w/H and X on opposite sides

A) E2 reactions never involve transition states
B) E2 reactions involve 4 atoms with hydrogen and X on opposite sides
C) E2 reactions involve 4 atoms with hydrogen and X on the same side
D) E2 reactions involve 4 atoms without hydrogen.

Answer 1

The correct answer is C) E2 reactions involve 4 atoms with hydrogen and X on the same side.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer to the question is C) E2 reactions involve 4 atoms with hydrogen and X on the same side. In an E2 reaction, the transition state involves four atoms with the hydrogen and X on the same side. This is known as the syn-periplanar geometry. The elimination occurs in a concerted manner, meaning that the proton transfer and leaving group departure happen simultaneously. While E2 reactions do involve a transition state, it is important to note that this transition state exists at an intermediate energy level between the reactants and products.