Question

Number of electrophiles from the following: CH₄, CO₂, NH₃, H₂O, SO₃, H⁺, BF₃

• A. 3
• B. 4
• C. 5
• D. 2

Hint:

When identifying electrophiles, look for species with electron deficiency or positive charges that can accept electrons.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Electrophiles are electron-deficient species that are attracted to areas of high electron density.
- CH₄ is a non-polar molecule and does not act as an electrophile.
- CO₂ is an electrophile due to the electron-deficient carbon atom.
- NH₃ acts as a nucleophile, not an electrophile.
- H₂O is neutral, not an electrophile.
- SO₃ is an electrophile due to its electron-deficient sulfur atom.
- H⁺ is an electrophile, as it has no electrons and seeks to accept a pair.
- BF₃ is an electrophile because of the electron-deficient boron atom.
Thus, the total number of electrophiles is 5 (CO₂, SO₃, H⁺, BF₃).