The solution of (+)-2-chloro-2-phenylethane in toluene racemizes slowly in the presence of small amount of SbCl5; due to the formation of
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is option 4. carbocation.
SbCl5 is a Lewis acid, which means that it can accept a pair of electrons. When it reacts with (+)-2-chloro-2-phenylethane, it accepts the electron pair from the chlorine atom, forming a carbocation. The carbocation is a planar molecule, so the chloride ion can attack from either side, resulting in a racemic mixture.
The other options are incorrect.
Carbanion: A carbanion is a negatively charged carbon atom with three bonds. It is not formed in this reaction.
Carbene: A carbene is a neutral carbon atom with two unbonded electrons. It is not formed in this reaction.
Free radical: A free radical is an atom or molecule with an unpaired electron. It is not formed in this reaction.
Therefore, the carbocation is formed in the reaction of (+)-2-chloro-2-phenylethane with SbCl5, resulting in racemization.