Question Detail

CHM 102 Practice Questions Objective Question
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Question

Electron-withdrawing groups are meta directors because :
Options
A the carbonium ion intermediate has a negative charge on the meta position.
B the more stable resonance hybrid occurs with meta attachment of the electrophile.
Correct Answer
C the less stable resonance hybrid occurs with meta attachment of the electrophile.
D the carbonium ion intermediate has a positive charge on the meta position.
Correct Answer

Option B is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

When an electrophile attaches to the ring, a carbocation is formed. Ortho or para attack results in a resonance form with the positive charge on the carbon bearing the electron-withdrawing group (highly unstable). This resonance form does not occur with meta placement, making meta attachment favored.

Hint

Which attack mode avoids placing positive charge on the carbon bearing the electron-withdrawing group?

Question Info

Course: CHM 102
Topic: Practice Questions
Type: Objective
Difficulty: Not specified
Question 1683 of 1999
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