Question

Which of the following molecules can act as a nucleophile and an electrophile?

• A. ${\mathrm{CH}}_3{\mathrm{NH}}_2$
• B. ${\mathrm{CH}}_3\mathrm{Cl}$
• C. ${\mathrm{CH}}_3\mathrm{CN}$
• D. ${\mathrm{CH}}_3\mathrm{OH}$

Answer 1

The correct option is C

${\mathrm{CH}}_3\mathrm{CN}$

Explanation for correct option:

(C) ${\mathrm{CH}}_3\mathrm{CN}$

• In ${\mathrm{CH}}_3\mathrm{CN}$, $‘\mathrm{C}’$ behave as electrophile deficient due to partial positive charge (electron-deficient ) as well as $‘\mathrm{N}’$ behave as nucleophile due to the presence of lone pair $‘\mathrm{N}’$.

Explanation for incorrect options:

(A) ${\mathrm{CH}}_3{\mathrm{NH}}_2$

• Here $‘\mathrm{N}’$ behave as a nucleophile due to the presence of lone pair on nitrogen.

(B) ${\mathrm{CH}}_3\mathrm{Cl}$

• Here $‘\mathrm{Cl}’$ behave as a nucleophile due to the presence of lone pair on $‘\mathrm{Cl}’$.

(D).${\mathrm{CH}}_3\mathrm{OH}$

• Here $‘\mathrm{OH}’$ behave as a nucleophile due to the presence of lone pair on $‘\mathrm{O}’$.

Hence, the correct option is C i.e. ${\mathrm{CH}}_3\mathrm{CN}$.