Nucleophilic Substitution & β-Elimination
Explore the mechanisms of nucleophilic substitution (SN2) and β-elimination (E2) reactions of bromoethane with hydroxide ions.
About this simulation
- What
- An interactive Chemistry simulation of Nucleophilic Substitution & β-Elimination.
- Who
- Designed for AP, IB, and A‑Level Chemistry students.
- How
- Runs in any modern browser — drag, adjust, and explore in real time.
Updated 2026-03-27
Key Concepts
Nucleophilic Substitution (SN2)
A reaction where a nucleophile (e.g., OH⁻) attacks the electron-deficient carbon, displacing the leaving group (Br⁻) in a single concerted step.
Elimination (E2)
A reaction where a base removes a proton from the β-carbon while the leaving group departs from the α-carbon, forming a double bond.
Reaction Conditions
Aqueous NaOH favors substitution (forming ethanol), while ethanolic NaOH with heat favors elimination (forming ethene).
Understanding Bromoethane Reactions
Bromoethane is a primary halogenoalkane that can undergo two main types of reactions when treated with a strong base/nucleophile like the hydroxide ion (OH⁻): Nucleophilic Substitution and Elimination.
In a nucleophilic substitution reaction (specifically SN2 for primary halogenoalkanes), the hydroxide ion acts as a nucleophile, attacking the partially positive carbon atom and displacing the bromide ion. This produces ethanol.
In an elimination reaction (E2), the hydroxide ion acts as a base, removing a proton from the adjacent (beta) carbon. The electrons from the C-H bond form a pi bond, and the bromide ion leaves, resulting in ethene.
Frequently Asked Questions
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