Q. The order of decreasing reactivity towards an electrophilic reagent, for the following would be (i) benzene (ii) toluene (iii) chlorobenzene (iv) phenol
A) (ii) > (iv) > (i) > (iii)
B) (iv) > (iii) > (ii) > (i)
C) (iv) > (ii) > (i) > (iii)
D) (i) > (ii) > (iii) > (iv)
Explanation
[Solution from source] –OH strongly activates the ring by resonance, –CH₃ activates weakly by hyperconjugation, and –Cl deactivates (–I effect dominates). So phenol > toluene > benzene > chlorobenzene. Answer (3).
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.