Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
nucleophilic
Adjective
/njuːkləʊˈfɪlɪk/
Definition
Relating to a nucleophile, which is a chemical species that donates an electron pair to form a chemical bond in reaction.
Examples
- The nucleophilic attack occurs when a nucleophile interacts with a substrate.
- Common nucleophilic agents include anions such as hydroxide or cyanide.
- Nucleophilic substitution is a fundamental reaction in organic chemistry.
Meaning
Nucleophilic describes the behavior of certain molecules or ions that are attracted to positively charged or electron-deficient centers in other molecules, participating in chemical reactions by providing electrons.
Synonyms
- Electron-donating
- Electron-rich
- Nucleophile
