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Molecularity and Rate

The E1 reaction is unimolecular which means one species is present in the rate equation. Changing the concentration of only that species changes the rate!


Wize Concept
E1 Reactions: Elimination Unimolecular (1)

Rate = k[substrate]




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Structural Requirements

E1 reactions occur between a weak base (MeOH) and an electrophile with lots steric hinderance ((CH3)3C-I).


Wize Concept
A weak base is usually neutral. It is commonly a solvent in a process called solvolysis.



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E1 Mechanism

The E1 reaction happens in a two steps via a carbocation intermediate. This carbocation is subject to rearrangement.



Wize Concept
Recall an intermediate is something that is formed en route and can be spectroscopically observed!


Wize Tip
Remember, carbocation rearrangements lead to the formation of a mixture of products!