Question detail

What is the primary difference between a nucleophile and an electrophile?

Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.

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At a glance

MCQ

Type

practice

Style

Topic

Introduction to organic chemistry

Question

A. Nucleophiles are positively charged, electrophiles are neutral.
B. Nucleophiles donate electrons, electrophiles accept electrons.
C. Nucleophiles are always neutral, electrophiles are always charged.
D. Nucleophiles are larger than electrophiles.

Answer

Nucleophiles donate electrons, electrophiles accept electrons.

Explanation

The primary difference is that nucleophiles donate electrons to form bonds, while electrophiles accept electrons. This distinction is fundamental in organic reaction mechanisms.

Common mistake

Confusing Nucleophiles and Electrophiles

Students often confuse nucleophiles with electrophiles, thinking both are electron donors.

Remember that nucleophiles are electron-rich species that donate electrons, while electrophiles are electron-deficient species that accept electrons. A nucleophile can be defined as a species that has a lone pair of electrons or a negative charge, whereas an electrophile is typically positively charged or has a partial positive charge.

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