Explain why the order of reactivity of Problem 7.6(c) is observed in nonpolar, weakly polar aprotic, and polar protic solvents, but is reversed in polar aprotic solvents.
In nonpolar and weakly polar aprotic solvents, the salts of : $\mathrm{Nu}^{-}$are present as ion-pairs (or ion-clusters) in which the nearby cations diminish the reactivity of the anion. Since, with a given cation, ion-pairing is strongest with the smallest ion, $\mathrm{F}^{-}$, and weakest with the largest ion, $\mathrm{I}^{-}$, the reactivity of $\mathrm{X}^{-}$decreases as the size of the anion decreases. In polar protic solvents, hydrogen-bonding, which also lessens the reactivity of $\mathrm{X}^{-}$, is weakest with the largest ion,
again making the largest ion more reactive. Polar aprotic solvents solvate only the cations, leaving free, unencumbered anions. The reactivities of all anions are enhanced, but the effect is more pronounced the smaller the anion. Hence, the order of Problem 7.6(c) is reversed.