Among the following the strongest nucleophile is

Among the following the strongest nucleophile is
  1. $\mathrm{C}_2 \mathrm{H}_5 \mathrm{SH}$
  2. $\mathrm{CH}_3 \mathrm{COO}^{-}$
  3. $\mathrm{CH}_3 \mathrm{NH}_2$
  4. $\mathrm{NCCH}_2^{-}$

Solution

Nucleophiles are those substances which can donate a pair of electrons. These can be neutral or negative. The nucleophilic power depends on the tendency of species to donate electrons. This is more, when an electron pushing group ( $+I$ group) is present. Among the alkyl groups, those have higher number of C-atoms will push more, hence ethyl > methyl.

Asked in: NEET 2015 (Phase 2)

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