Hi, I could really use your help. The question is Which of the products would you anticipate being formed in the least molar quantity? That is, which of the products (1, 2, or 3) is the minor product? Explain your choice. HINT: Consider the intermediates formed.

Number 1 will be in the lowest molar quantity b/c formation of 1st order products are more difficult to form than secondary (#2) or tertiary (#3) substitution products.  

Explanation:

In general, if a substitution occurs such that it is attached to a carbon that's attached to only one carbon, it is referred to as a primary carbon substitution. If a substitution occurs on a carbon that is attached to two (2) carbons, it is a secondary carbon substitution. Finally, if a substitution occurs such that it is attached to a carbon that's attached to three (3) carbons it is a tertiary substitution. Typically, primary substitution products follow an Sn2 type reaction pathway. Such requires the formation of only one intermediate that difficult to form as compared to 2° or 3° intermediates. Once formed, however, they will be very unstable and proceeds to product very quickly. Such produce very low product yield. The intermediates for 2° and 3° form more easily and are more stable in the reaction environments. An example is tertiary butyl halogens (e.g., t-butyl chloride) follow and Sn1 type reaction pathway forming a tertiary carbocation which then reacts with a nucleophile of choice and forms much higher yields than the 1° carbon substitution reactions. Suggest reviewing Sn2 and Sn1 substitution reactions.

yes definetly because you are using energy

it is the most commonly accepted one