Which of the following experimental factors significantly favor an pathway over an competing pathway — Reaction Mechanism Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Primary alkyl halides lack the steric hindrance required to block a backside attack, favoring $S_N2$ over $S_N1$ (A is true). Conversely, steric bulk prevents $S_N2$ (B is false). High concentrations of strong nucleophiles drive the $S_N2$ rate because the nucleophile is in the rate law (C is true). Polar aprotic solvents leave nucleophilic anions unsolvated and highly reactive, favoring $S_N2$ (D is true).