Inductive effect

Definition

The inductive effect is a phenomenon observed in organic chemistry where the polarization of chemical bonds occurs due to the shifting of electrons along a chain of atoms within a molecule, caused by differences in electronegativity. This effect influences the distribution of electron density across the molecule, affecting its reactivity and properties.

Related terms

Electronegativity:

A measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons within a chemical bond.

Polar Covalent Bond: A type of chemical bond where two atoms share a pair of electrons unequally due to differences in their electronegativities.

Resonance Effect:

The delocalization of electrons across adjacent atoms in a molecule, significantly altering its electronic structure and stability without shifting atoms