Question Detail
Question
Which of the following compounds undergoes nitration most readily?
Correct Answer
Option B is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
Toluene undergoes nitration most readily because the methyl group is an electron-donating (activating) group that stabilizes the sigma complex intermediate. Nitrobenzene and benzoic acid are deactivated, and benzene is less activated than toluene.
Hint
Which compound has an activating methyl group?