Question

Why is `CH_3Cl` an electrophile?

Answer 1

The carbon center is electrophilic.

Explanation:

Chlorine is significantly more electronegative than carbon, so the C-Cl bond is polarized, leaving the carbon electron deficient.

However, when considering the reactions of alkyl halides as electrophiles in general, do also take note of the covalent bond `"(C-X)"` strength and the stability of the halide anions `"(X"^{-})` when it becomes a leaving group.