[ilovemath]

If SO₃ is a non-polar molecule why, then, does it act as an electrophile?

[duharvalgt]

S-O bond is very weak (break from 1of 3 double bonds) then is so3+ therefore is an electrophile.

[charco]

(Original post by ilovemath)
If SO₃ is a non-polar molecule why, then, does it act as an electrophile?

Overall it is non-polar because all of the individual dipoles cancel out. BUT the sulphur is relatively positive compared to the three oxygen atoms.

[EierVonSatan]

A non-polar molecule can still have polar bonds

[ilovemath]

(Original post by EierVonSatan)
A non-polar molecule can still have polar bonds

is it because the sulfur as an atom is strongly (+vely) polarised so can attack the benzene ring?

[EierVonSatan]

(Original post by ilovemath)
is it because the sulfur as an atom is strongly (+vely) polarised so can attack the benzene ring?

Yes, as charco said above

[ilovemath]

(Original post by EierVonSatan)
Yes, as charco said above

yes...sorry...didn't see that post

thanks all