Lucas Reagent: Converting Alcohols to Alkyl Chlorides: Mechanism + Exam Traps

Learn how Lucas reagent (HCl/ZnCl₂) converts alcohols to alkyl chlorides and how substrate class controls SN1 vs SN2 behavior.

• Reaction: Lucas Reagent: Converting Alcohols to Alkyl Chlorides
• What it does: Learn how Lucas reagent (HCl/ZnCl₂) converts alcohols to alkyl chlorides and how substrate class controls SN1 vs SN2 behavior.
• Typical reagents: conc. HCl, ZnCl2
• Key intermediate: Carbocation
• Driving force: Formation/capture of a stabilized cation
• Exam type: Mechanism choice
• Exam type: Rate comparison
• Exam type: Stereochemistry