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Leaving groups definition
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In chemistry, a leaving group is an atom or a group of atoms that departs from a molecule during a heterolytic bond-breaking reaction, taking an electron pair with it. The leaving group's ability to stabilize the negative charge formed after leaving is a key factor in determining the reaction rate. Good leaving groups are typically weak bases and stable anions, like halides (Cl-, Br-, I-) or tosylates (OTs-).
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