Nucleophilic Substitution Mechanisms: Electron Pathfinder
Draw curly arrows to trace electron flow in nucleophilic substitution reactions. Master SN2 and SN1 mechanisms.
About this simulation
- What
- An interactive Chemistry simulation of Nucleophilic Substitution Mechanisms: Electron Pathfinder.
- Who
- Designed for AP, IB, and A‑Level Chemistry students.
- How
- Runs in any modern browser — drag, adjust, and explore in real time.
Updated 2025-10-13
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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