Question

The replacement of chlorine of chlorobenzene to give phenol requires drastic conditions, but the chlorine of 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene is readily replaced since
A. `NO_(2)` makes the electron rich ring at ortho and para positions
B. `NO_(2)` withdraws electrons at meta position
C. `NO_(2)` donate electrons at m-position
D. `NO_(2)` withdraws electrons at ortho and para positions

Answer 1

Correct Answer - D
`NO_(2)` groups withdraw electrons at ortho and p-position and then deactivate the ring. This deactivation of ring stabilises the negatively charged intermediates formed during the reaction and therefore, increases the reactivity towards replacement.