In acid-catalyzed nucleophilic addition reactions, which of the following property does the carbonyl system enhance?
Correct answer: A. Electrophilicity
- A. Electrophilicity
- B. Nucleophilicity
- C. Basicity
- D. Acidity
Explanation
In acid-catalyzed nucleophilic addition reactions, the carbonyl system enhances the electrophilicity of the carbonyl carbon. The presence of the carbonyl group, which consists of a carbon-oxygen double bond (C=O), creates a partially positive charge on the carbon atom due to the higher electronegativity of oxygen. This makes the carbonyl carbon susceptible to attack by nucleophiles, which are electron-rich species seeking a positive center to bond with. The acid-catalyzed conditions further enhance this electrophilicity by protonating the carbonyl oxygen, which increases the positive charge on the carbonyl carbon, making it more attractive to nucleophiles.
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About Aldehydes and Ketones
Aldehydes and ketones contain the polar carbonyl group, but aldehydes are generally more readily oxidised and more reactive than ketones. Coverage includes preparation by oxidation or reduction routes, nucleophilic addition of reagents such as hydrogen cyanide and bisulfite, and tests that distinguish aldehydes from ketones.
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