Question

Why is $AlC{l}_3$ an electrophile?

Answer 1

$AlC{l}_3$:

• Aluminium trichloride or aluminium (III) chloride are the other names for aluminium chloride.
• $AlC{l}_3$ is the chemical formula of aluminium chloride. When it comes to aesthetics, aluminium chloride is typically white. It takes on a yellowish colour due to the presence of impurities (iron(III) chloride).
• Aluminium chloride is used to make aluminium metal in industry, but it also has a variety of functions in the chemical industry, specifically as a Lewis acid.
• Covalently bound solid aluminium chloride ($AlC{l}_3$) has a low melting and boiling temperature.

Reason for $AlC{l}_3$ an electrophile:

• An electrophile is a substance that is electron loving. Any molecule, ion or atom that is deficient in electrons in some manner can act as an electrophile.
• The chlorine atom and aluminium share six electrons.
• According to the octet rule, aluminium can take two more electrons to complete its octet.
• $AlC{l}_3$ is hence an electrophile.