The nucleophilicity of `F^(-)` is higher in case of

Options

A. water
B. ethanol
C. DMSO
D. acetone

Answer

To solve the question regarding the nucleophilicity of `F^(-)` in different solvents, we will analyze the effects of solvent polarity and hydrogen bonding on nucleophilicity.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Nucleophilicity**:
- Nucleophilicity refers to the ability of a species to donate an electron pair to an electrophile. It is influenced by several factors including charge, electronegativity, and the solvent environment.

2. **Polar Protic vs. Polar Aprotic Solvents**:
- Polar protic solvents (e.g., water, ethanol) can form hydrogen bonds with nucleophiles. This hydrogen bonding can stabilize the nucleophile and decrease its reactivity.
- Polar aprotic solvents (e.g., DMSO, acetone) do not form hydrogen bonds with nucleophiles, allowing them to remain more reactive.

3. **Comparing Nucleophilicity in Different Solvents**:
- In polar protic solvents, the nucleophilicity order is generally: `I^(-) > Br^(-) > Cl^(-) > F^(-)`. This is because the larger halides are less solvated and can act as better nucleophiles.
- In polar aprotic solvents, the order changes to: `F^(-) > Cl^(-) > Br^(-) > I^(-)`. Here, `F^(-)` is a stronger nucleophile because it is less hindered by solvent interactions.

4. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Option A: Water** (polar protic) - `F^(-)` is not a strong nucleophile due to hydrogen bonding.
- **Option B: Ethanol** (polar protic) - Similar to water, `F^(-)` is not a strong nucleophile due to hydrogen bonding.
- **Option C: DMSO** (polar aprotic) - `F^(-)` is a stronger nucleophile because it is not hindered by hydrogen bonding.
- **Option D: Acetone** (polar aprotic) - Similar to DMSO, but the question specifically asks for the highest nucleophilicity.

5. **Conclusion**:
- The nucleophilicity of `F^(-)` is highest in DMSO (polar aprotic solvent) compared to the other options provided.

### Final Answer:
The nucleophilicity of `F^(-)` is higher in case of **DMSO** (Option C).