Chapter 9, Problem 9.11P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The order for increasing ${\text{S}}_{\text{N}}\text{2}$ reaction of the given alkoxide nucleophile is to be ranked.

Concept introduction:

Strong, bulky bases (such as the tert-butoxide anion) tend to favor $\text{E2}$ reactions over ${\text{S}}_{\text{N}}\text{2}$ reactions as the reaction rate for ${\text{S}}_{\text{N}}\text{2}$ decreases for the bulkier nucleophile.