electron-withdrawing strength
nounUK /ɪˈlɛk.trɒn wɪðˈdrɔː.ɪŋ strɛŋθ/
US /ɪˈlɛk.trɑːn wɪðˈdrɔː.ɪŋ strɛŋθ/
How strongly a group of atoms pulls electrons toward itself.
The electron-withdrawing strength of the nitro group makes the acid much stronger.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A ranking of chemical groups by how much they pull electrons in a molecule.
Chemists compare the electron-withdrawing strength of halogens to predict reaction rates.
3. The tendency of a substituent to remove electron density from a reaction center.
Higher electron-withdrawing strength at the ring slows the reaction down.
4. A measure used to explain shifts in acidity or basicity caused by nearby groups.
The electron-withdrawing strength of the chlorine atom raises the compound's acidity.