What is the Difference Between EDG and EWG?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between Electron Donating Groups (EDGs) and Electron Withdrawing Groups (EWGs) lies in their effect on the electron density of a molecule. EDGs increase electron density in the molecule, while EWGs decrease electron density. Both EDGs and EWGs are electrophilic aromatic directing groups, which are forms of substituents found in organic compounds.
EDGs make molecules more reactive towards electrophiles, while EWGs make them more reactive towards nucleophiles. Some examples of EDGs include amino groups (-NH2), hydroxyl groups (-OH), and alkyl groups (-R). On the other hand, examples of EWGs include carbonyl groups (C=O), nitro groups (NO2), cyano groups (CN), and COOH groups.
In summary:
- EDGs increase electron density and make molecules more reactive towards electrophiles.
- EWGs decrease electron density and make molecules more reactive towards nucleophiles.
Comparative Table: EDG vs EWG
Here is a table comparing the differences between Electron Donating Groups (EDG) and Electron Withdrawing Groups (EWG):
| Property | EDG | EWG |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | EDG stands for Electron Donating Groups, which donate electrons and increase electron density in a molecule. | EWG stands for Electron Withdrawing Groups, which accept electrons and decrease electron density in a molecule. |
| Effects on Molecular Properties | EDGs increase the boiling point due to the formation of hydrogen bonds with water molecules. | EWGs decrease the boiling point due to the absence of hydrogen bonding. |
| Examples | Examples of EDGs include amino groups (-NH2), hydroxyl groups (-OH), and alkyl groups (-R). | Examples of EWGs include carbonyl groups (C=O), nitro groups (-NO2), and cyano groups (-CN). |
| Effect on Reactivity | EDGs make molecules more reactive towards electrophiles. | EWGs make molecules more reactive towards nucleophiles. |
| Aromatic Ring Activation/Deactivation | EDGs increase electron density in aromatic rings and activate them, making them more reactive. | EWGs decrease electron density in aromatic rings and deactivate them, making them less reactive. |
In summary, EDGs and EWGs are both electrophilic aromatic directing groups, but they have opposite functions when attached to aromatic rings. EDGs increase electron density, making molecules more reactive towards electrophiles, while EWGs decrease electron density, making them more reactive towards nucleophiles.