Question

Which is not an electrophile?

• A. $N{H}_4^{+}$
• B. $BC{l}_3$
• C. $B{H}_3$
• D. $H^{+}$

Answer 1

The correct option is A $N{H}_4^{+}$

A reagent that can accept electrons in a chemical reaction is known as Electrophile.
a) Although $N{H}_4^{+}$ has positive charge, all its atoms have complete noble gas configuration, does not require electrons, hence not an electrophile.
b) & c) $BC{l}_3,B{F}_3$ has vacant orbital and can accept electrons thus act as strong electrophiles.
d) $H^{+}$ has positive charged with incomplete valence shell thus can accept electrons and hence is an electrophile.