What are electrophiles and nucleophiles? Explain with examples.
An electrophile is a reagent that takes away an electron pair. In other words, an electron-seeking reagent is called an electrophile (E+). Electrophiles are electron-deficient and can receive an electron pair.
Carbocationsand neutral molecules having functional groups such as carbonyl group () are examples of electrophiles.
A nulceophile is a reagent that brings an electron pair. In other words, a nucleus-seeking reagent is called a nulceophile (Nu:).
For example: OH–, NC–, carbanions (R3C–), etc.
Neutral molecules such as H2Ö and ammonia also act as nulceophiles because of the presence of a lone pair.