elektrofíly

Elektrofíly are chemical species that are attracted to electron-rich centers. The name "electrophile" itself means "electron-loving." They are typically positively charged or have a region of positive partial charge. This electron deficiency makes them seek out electron-rich species, known as nucleophiles, with which they can form a covalent bond.

Common examples of electrophiles include cations like H+ or NO2+, and neutral molecules with polar double or triple bonds such as CO2 or SO3. Molecules with incomplete octets, like AlCl3 or BF3, also function as electrophiles because they have an electron deficiency. Electrophilic reactions are fundamental in organic chemistry, playing a key role in processes like electrophilic aromatic substitution and addition reactions to alkenes and alkynes. These reactions are crucial for the synthesis of a vast array of organic compounds. The strength of an electrophile is related to its ability to accept electrons, and this property is often exploited in directing chemical synthesis and understanding reaction mechanisms.