🥼organic chemistry review

Benzylic

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025

Definition

A benzylic position in organic chemistry refers to the location of a carbon atom directly attached to a benzene ring. In the context of SN1 reactions, a benzylic halide often exhibits high reactivity due to the stabilization of the carbocation intermediate by the aromatic ring.

AP course connection

Topic 11.5: 11.5 Characteristics of the SN1 Reaction

Unit 11
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