Energy Diagram for an SN1 Reaction

[PoochGroup]

The first step is the RDS since the LG leaving generates a highly unstable carbocation. My question is whether everything else in the diagram is correct (such as my delta H calculation and relative values for the other steps).

 

http://i.imgur.com/4qHmnyo.png

 

Thanks

[hypervalent_iodine]

The first step is the RDS since the LG leaving generates a highly unstable carbocation. My question is whether everything else in the diagram is correct (such as my delta H calculation and relative values for the other steps).

 

http://i.imgur.com/4qHmnyo.png

 

Thanks

 

Well, it's not highly unstable, just less stable than the benzylic position. The plot looks fine otherwise. Personally, I would draw the lines so flat at the product and reactant ends and I'd make the ascent and descent more sloped, but this is a very minor point and one you'd not get marked down for ignoring.