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Predict the order of reactivity of the following four isomers towards $S_N2$ reaction.
(I) $CH_3CH_2CH_2CH_2Cl$
(II) $CH_3CH_2CH(Cl)CH_3$
(III) $(CH_3)_2CHCH_2Cl$
(IV) $(CH_3)_3CCl$
Detailed Solution
Greater the steric hindrance at (and near) the carbon bearing the halogen, lesser the rate of $S_N2$ reaction. Primary unbranched (I) > primary with branching at $\beta$-carbon (III) > secondary (II) > tertiary (IV).