What is Leaving group?
In [[chemistry]], a '''leaving group''' is an atom or molecule that leaves another molecule during a [[chemical reaction|reaction]]. This reaction can be for example a [[nucleophilic substitution]]. In this case the leaving group gets a pair of [[electron]]s. Some leaving groups are better than others. This is because some atoms or molecules like getting extra electrons. The [[halide]]s are a good example of good leaving groups. [[Image:BromoethaneSN2reaction-small.png|center|thumb|500px|In this S<sub>N</sub>2 reaction, bromide (Br<sup>−</sup>) is the leaving group and hydroxide (OH<sup>−</sup>) is the [[nucleophile]].]] The type of leaving group can change the type of reaction that happens. For example, bad leaving groups make an [[SN1 reaction]] more difficult, while they make an [[SN2 reaction]] easier. {{chem-stub}} [[Category:Chemical reactions]]