Question

multiple choice 2 points
which of the following reactive intermediates can best be described as both nucleophilic and strongly basic?
alkanes
carbenes
carbocations
free radicals
carbanions

Explanation:

Carbanions have a negative - charge on carbon, making them electron - rich (nucleophilic) and they can also act as strong bases by donating a pair of electrons or accepting a proton. Alkanes are stable and non - reactive in this context. Carbenes are neutral but have a highly reactive divalent carbon. Carbocations are electron - deficient and act as electrophiles. Free radicals have an unpaired electron and are mainly involved in radical reactions, not typically known for being strongly basic and nucleophilic like carbanions.

Answer:

E. carbanions