The following shows an intermediate used in a Grignard synthesis. Which atom will inductively donate electrons in this species?
A) C
B) Br
C) Mg
D) H
E) both b and c

Question

The following shows an intermediate used in a Grignard synthesis. Which atom will inductively donate electrons in this species? 
A) C 
B) Br 
C) Mg 
D) H 
E) both b and c

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In Grignard reagents, the carbon bonded to magnesium is in a strongly basic and electron-rich state. This carbon will inductively donate electrons to adjacent atoms, making it a nucleophile. Therefore, in this intermediate, the Mg atom will be the one inductively donating electrons.

The Following Shows an Intermediate Used in a Grignard Synthesis