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chemistry/curly-arrow
View PricingNucleophilic Substitution Mechanisms: Electron Pathfinder
Draw curly arrows to trace electron flow in nucleophilic substitution reactions. Master SN2 and SN1 mechanisms.
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Key Concepts
Curly Arrows
Full arrows (⟶) show movement of electron pairs. They always start from an electron source (lone pair or bond).
Nucleophile & Electrophile
Nucleophiles donate electrons (electron-rich). Electrophiles accept electrons (electron-poor).
Leaving Groups
Good leaving groups (Br⁻, Cl⁻, I⁻) can stabilize negative charge and depart with the bonding electrons.
Understanding Nucleophilic Substitution Mechanisms
**Curly Arrows** are the graphical notation used by chemists to represent the movement of electron pairs during a reaction mechanism. They serve as the essential visual tool for predicting how bonds are broken and formed.
In organic chemistry, a full-headed curly arrow represents the movement of two electrons, always originating from an **electron source** (lone pair or bond) and pointing toward an **electron sink** (electrophilic center).
Use our interactive 'Electron Pathfinder' to draw step-by-step mechanisms for **SN1** and **SN2** reactions, receiving real-time validation for your nucleophilic attacks and leaving group departures.
Frequently Asked Questions
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