Question

Which of the following is an incorrect statement about the nucleophiles?

(a) They are electron rich

(b) They possess an empty orbital to receive the electron pair

(c) They attack electron deficient centres

(d) Examples are: OH^–, NH3, H2O etc

This question was addressed to me during an online exam.

The doubt is from Electromeric Effect topic in chapter Reactivity of Molecules Reaction Mechanism of Engineering Chemistry I

Answer 1

Correct answer is (b) They possess an empty orbital to receive the electron pair

For explanation I would say: Nucleophiles possess an unshared electron pair which is not firmly held to the nucleus. All the other options are correct. They are electron rich and attack on electron deficient centres. Examples are: OH^–, NH3, H2O etc.