Finkelstein Reaction: SN2 Halide Exchange (Mechanism + Practice)

Learn the Finkelstein reaction mechanism (SN2 halide exchange). Interactive arrow-pushing, solvent effects (acetone), stereochemistry (inversion), and practice problems.

• Reaction: Finkelstein (halide exchange)
• What it does: Converts R–Cl/R–Br → R–I via SN2
• Typical reagents: NaI in acetone (or other polar aprotic solvent)
• Key intermediate: One-step SN2 transition state
• Driving force: Precipitation of NaCl/NaBr in acetone
• Exam type: Choose mechanism
• Exam type: Stereochemistry
• Exam type: Rate/solvent effects