tetrahedral intermediate
What tetrahedral intermediate means in Chemistry A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of tetrahedral intermediate
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain tetrahedral intermediate in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
The structure formed in the addition step, with a negative oxygen and a positive nitrogen, whose formal charges must be drawn.
The species formed after addition, with a negative charge on oxygen and a positive charge on the attacking atom.
Topics that use tetrahedral intermediate
- Acylation (A-level only) (AQA A-Level)
- Nucleophilic properties (A-level only) (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- addition-elimination
- acid anhydride
- amide
- amide formation
- ammonium salt formation
- anhydride versus acyl chloride
- atom economy
- attack at a δ⁺ carbon
Using tetrahedral intermediate in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Chemistry questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge