Chemistry - Halogen Derivative Question with Solution | TestHub

In an aqueous medium (protic solvent), nucleophilicity increases down the halogen group due to the decreasing extent of solvation, which makes the larger ions more polarizable and reactive. Therefore, $C{l}^{-}$, $B{r}^{-}$, and $I^{-}$ are all stronger nucleophiles than $F^{-}$. Alkoxide ions like $O{C}_2{H}_5^{-}$ and phenoxide ions (the substituted phenoxide shown in the image) are also generally stronger nucleophiles than the fluoride ion in protic solvents. The five nucleophiles listed that are stronger than $F^{-}$ in aqueous medium are: $I^{-}$, $O{C}_2{H}_5^{-}$, the substituted phenoxide ion, $C{l}^{-}$, and $B{r}^{-}$.