elektrorfiliidne

Elektrorfiliidne is a term used in chemistry to describe a chemical species that is attracted to, or reacts with, electron-rich regions of molecules. The word itself is derived from Greek roots: "electro" referring to electricity or electrons, and "philein" meaning to love. Therefore, an electrophile is essentially an "electron lover."

Electrophiles are typically electron-deficient species. This deficiency can arise from several factors, such as a positive charge, a partial positive charge, or a vacant orbital. Common examples of electrophiles include positively charged ions like the hydronium ion (H3O+) or carbocations. Neutral molecules with polar covalent bonds, where one atom is significantly more electronegative than another, can also act as electrophiles. For instance, in a carbonyl group (C=O), the carbon atom carries a partial positive charge and is susceptible to attack by an electron-rich species. Lewis acids, which are electron pair acceptors, are also a type of electrophile.

The behavior of electrophiles is central to many organic reaction mechanisms, particularly electrophilic substitution and addition reactions. In these processes, an electrophile attacks a region of high electron density, such as a double bond or an aromatic ring, leading to the formation of new covalent bonds. The strength of an electrophile is often described by its electrophilicity, which quantifies its tendency to accept electrons. Understanding electrophilicity is crucial for predicting the course and outcome of chemical reactions.