Question:

Which of the following has the highest nucleophilicity?

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Nucleophilicity increases with less electronegative elements and species with higher electron density.
Updated On: Apr 22, 2026
  • \( \text{F}^- \)
  • \( \text{OH}^- \)
  • \( \text{CH}_3 \)
  • \( \text{NH}_2^- \)
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding nucleophilicity.
Nucleophilicity refers to the ability of a species to donate a pair of electrons to form a bond with an electrophile. It depends on the species' electron density and size. More negatively charged and less electronegative species are generally better nucleophiles.

Step 2: Analyze the options.

- \( \text{F}^- \): Fluoride ion is highly electronegative and its electron density is tightly held, making it a weaker nucleophile.
- \( \text{OH}^- \): Hydroxide ion is a good nucleophile, but not the strongest among the given options.
- \( \text{CH}_3^- \): The methyl anion (\( \text{CH}_3^- \)) is a very strong nucleophile because the negative charge is localized on a small, less electronegative carbon atom.
- \( \text{NH}_2^- \): The amide anion (\( \text{NH}_2^- \)) is a good nucleophile, but not as good as the methyl anion.

Step 3: Conclusion.

The correct answer is (3), \( \text{CH}_3^- \), as it is the most nucleophilic species among the options.
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