noun
- A molecule or ion that accepts electrons from a nucleophile in a chemical reaction.
Usage: chemistry; technical
Examples
- In organic chemistry, an electrophile is attracted to regions of high electron density.
- Carbocations are common electrophiles in substitution and addition reactions.
- The electrophile attacks the π-electrons of the alkene during an electrophilic addition.
- Bromine acts as an electrophile when it reacts with benzene.
- Understanding electrophile behavior is essential for predicting reaction mechanisms.