Question detail
In a nucleophilic substitution reaction, what is the role of the nucleophile?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Halogenoalkanes
Question
- A. To donate a proton
- B. To accept electrons
- C. To donate a pair of electrons
- D. To form a covalent bond
Answer
To donate a pair of electrons
Explanation
In nucleophilic substitution, the nucleophile donates a pair of electrons to form a new bond with the carbon atom, facilitating the substitution of the halogen.
Common mistake
Understanding Nucleophilic Substitution
Students often confuse the roles of nucleophiles and electrophiles in nucleophilic substitution mechanisms.
To clarify, remember that nucleophiles are electron-rich species that donate a pair of electrons to form a bond, while electrophiles are electron-deficient species that accept electron pairs. For example, in the reaction of a halogenoalkane with OH-, the hydroxide ion (OH-) acts as the nucleophile, attacking the carbon atom bonded to the halogen, which is the electrophile due to its partial positive charge.
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