Question

Identify  the correct older of reactivity in electrophilic substitution reactions of the following compounds

(a) 1 > 2 > 3 > 4

(b) 4 > 3 > 2 > 1

(c) 2 > 1 > 3 > 4

(d) 2 > 3 > 1 > 4

Answer 1

The correct option (c) 2 > 1 > 3 > 4

Explanation:

The -NO₂ group is electron attractive group, so it deactivates the benzene ring largely, -Cl atom is also deactivate the benzene ring but this deactivation is lower to -NO₂ group; while -CH₃ group activates the benzene ring. Hence, on the basis of activation and deactivation they have the following order of electrophilic attraction (because more activated group attracts electrophile easily).