The function of `AlCl_3 ` in Friedel-Craft's reaction is to

Options

A. absorb hydrogen chloride
B. absorb water
C. produces nucleophile
D. produce electrophile

Explanation

To solve the question regarding the function of AlCl₃ in Friedel-Crafts reactions, we can break down the process step by step.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Friedel-Crafts Reaction**:
Friedel-Crafts reactions involve the alkylation or acylation of aromatic rings. These reactions require an electrophile to react with the nucleophilic aromatic ring.

2. **Role of AlCl₃**:
Aluminum chloride (AlCl₃) acts as a Lewis acid in Friedel-Crafts reactions. A Lewis acid is a substance that can accept an electron pair.

3. **Formation of Electrophile**:
When an alkyl halide (for example, R-Cl) is treated with AlCl₃, the AlCl₃ coordinates with the halide (Cl) and helps in the cleavage of the bond between the carbon and chlorine. This process generates a carbocation (R⁺), which is a strong electrophile.

- Reaction Example:
\[ R-Cl + AlCl_3 \rightarrow R^+ + AlCl_4^- \]
Here, R⁺ is the electrophile produced.

4. **Electrophilic Attack on Benzene**:
The generated carbocation (R⁺) can then attack the electron-rich benzene ring. The benzene ring acts as a nucleophile and donates an electron pair to the electrophile.

5. **Formation of Product**:
The result of this electrophilic attack is the formation of a substituted aromatic compound. The reaction also produces HCl as a byproduct when the hydrogen atom from the benzene is replaced by the alkyl group.

6. **Conclusion**:
Therefore, the primary function of AlCl₃ in Friedel-Crafts reactions is to produce an electrophile.

### Final Answer:
The function of AlCl₃ in Friedel-Crafts reaction is to **produce electrophile**.