Mechanism of Reaction: The first step is a deprotonation of the -O-H group of
acetaminophen by the hydroxide. Then, when the ethyl iodide is added, the anion of
acetaminophen does an SN2 attack of the ethyl iodide to create a new ether bond.
Although the deprotonated acetaminophen has a negatively charged oxygen, briefly explain
(no structures needed), why it is slightly more stable than usual.
What feature of the alkyl halide promotes SN2 reactions?
