CameraIcon
CameraIcon
SearchIcon
MyQuestionIcon
MyQuestionIcon
1
You visited us 1 times! Enjoying our articles? Unlock Full Access!
Question

What is a difference between an electrophile and nucleophile ???

Please explain in detail.

Open in App
Solution

As the name implies, one involves replacement of a leaving group by an electrophile, the other involves replacement of a leaving group with a nucleophile.

Explanation:

Substitution reactions involve one atom/group in a molecule being replaced by another; the one that is replaced being known as the "leaving group". This is distinct from "addition" reactions in which a species adds onto a molecule, but doesn't replace a leaving group.

Electrophilic substitutions involve displacement of a functional group by an electrophile (generally a hydrogen atom). Electrophiles are species that are attracted to electrons.

Nucleophilic substitutions involve attack of a positively charged (or partially positively charged) atom or group by a nucleophile. Nucleophiles are species that can donate an electron pair.


flag
Suggest Corrections
thumbs-up
0
Join BYJU'S Learning Program
similar_icon
Related Videos
thumbnail
lock
Physical Properties
CHEMISTRY
Watch in App
Join BYJU'S Learning Program
CrossIcon