Question

Which of the following carbocation is most stable ?
(a) `(CH_(3))_(3)C.overset(+)CH_(2)` (b) `(CH_(3))_(3)overset(+)C` (c) `CH_(3)CH_(2)overset(+)CH_(2)` (d) `CH_(3)overset(+)CHCH_(2)CH_(3)`

Answer 1

`(CH_(3))_(3)overset(+)C` is a tertiary carbocation. A tertiary carbocation is the most stable carbocation due to the electron releasing effect of three methyl groups. An increased + I effect by three methyl groups stabilizes the positive charge on the carbocation.