Question:

Which of the following is NOT an electrophile?

Show Hint

Electrophiles are species that can accept electron pairs. Examples include H\(^+\), AlCl\(_3\), and NO\(_2^+\).
Updated On: Feb 9, 2026
  • H\(^+\)
  • AlCl\(_3\)
  • NO\(_2^+\)
  • K\(^+\)
Hide Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding electrophiles.
An electrophile is a species that can accept an electron pair. These are typically positively charged species or molecules with incomplete octets that seek to gain electrons.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) H\(^+\): Correct. Hydrogen ion (H\(^+\)) is a classic electrophile, as it accepts electron pairs.
(B) AlCl\(_3\): Correct. AlCl\(_3\) acts as an electrophile because it can accept electrons from nucleophiles.
(C) NO\(_2^+\): Correct. Nitronium ion (NO\(_2^+\)) is an electrophile that accepts electron pairs.
(D) K\(^+\): Incorrect. Potassium ion (K\(^+\)) is not an electrophile because it does not readily accept electron pairs. It is a cation but not an electrophile.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (D) K\(^+\), as it is not an electrophile.
Was this answer helpful?
0
0