2-Pentanol can coverted to 2-ethoxy pentane by two paths. In path `I`, configuration at chiral `C` is retained but at path `II`, configuration is inverted. Explain.
,
Tosyl (Ts) is .

Explanation

In both the paths, the nucleophile is `C_2H_5O^(Ө)` ion. In path `I`, nucleophile has chiral centre and reaction takes place without breaking any bond, thus configuration in final product is retained.

In path `II`, nucleophile `(C_2H_5O^(Ө))` attacks chiral centre back-side in an `SN^2` reaction with inversion of configuration in ether (`underset (o)rarr` means inversion).
.