The cyanide ion () can attack an alkyl halide through either its carbon atom or its nitrogen atom. S — Reaction Mechanism Chemistry Question
Question
The cyanide ion ($CN^-$) can attack an alkyl halide through either its carbon atom or its nitrogen atom. Such a reagent is classified as:
Answer: B
💡 Solution & Explanation
Ambident nucleophiles possess multiple atoms (reactive sites) capable of donating an electron pair. $CN^-$ can form nitriles (via C-attack) or isonitriles (via N-attack).
💬Ask on WhatsApp →
Still have doubts about this question?
Send it to our AI chemistry tutor on WhatsApp — gets answered in minutes