Question Detail
Question
Which of the following correctly reflects relative stabilities of carbocations?
Correct Answer
Option D is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
The correct order of carbocation stability is: 2° allylic > 2° > vinyl. Allylic and benzylic carbocations are stabilized by resonance. Vinyl carbocations are very unstable. Methyl is least stable. 3° benzylic > 3° allylic > 3° > 2° benzylic > 2° allylic > 2° > 1° benzylic > 1° allylic > 1° > vinyl.
Hint
How does resonance and substitution affect carbocation stability?