What are electrophiles and nucleophiles? Explain with examples.

Question

Philoid · Accepted Answer

1. An electrophile is a reagent that takes away an electron pair. In other words, an electron-seeking reagent is called electrophile (E⁺).

2. Electrophiles are electron deficient and can receive an electron pair.

3. Carbocations and neutral molecules having functional groups such as carbonyl group are examples of electrophiles.

4. A nucleophile is a reagent that brings an electron-pair. In other words, a nucleus seeking reagent is called nucleophile(Nu^-)

5. For example: OH^-, NC^-, carbanions etc.

6. Neutral molecules such as H₂O and ammonia also act as nucleophiles because of the presence of a lone pair.