(a) Give an orbital representation for an $\mathrm{S}_{\mathrm{N}} 2$ reaction with ( $S$ )-RCHDX and : $\mathrm{Nu}^{-}$, if in the transition state the $\mathrm{C}$ on which displacement occurs uses $s p^2$ hybrid orbitals. (b) How does this representation explain (i) inversion, (ii) the order of reactivity $3^n>2^a>1^{-n}$ ?
(a) See Fig. 7-1.
(b) (i) The reaction is initiated by the nucleophile beginning to overlap with the tail of the $s p^3$ hybrid orbital holding $\mathrm{X}$. In order for the tail to become the head, the configuration must change; inversion occurs. (ii) As H's on the attacked C are replaced by R's, the TS becomes more crowded and has a higher enthalpy. With a $3^{\circ} \mathrm{RX}$, there is a higher $\Delta H^{\ddagger}$ and a lower rate.