Q69 / 200 · NEET 2012 (Screening) · Chemistry

Among the following compounds the one that is most reactive towards electrophilic nitration is

  • A
    benzoic acid
  • B
    nitrobenzene
  • Correct answer
    C
    toluene
  • D
    benzene

Solution

Presence of electron releasing group like $-R,-\mathrm{OH}$ etc., increases the electron density at $o / p$ position and thus, makes the benzene ring more reactive (at $o / p$ positions) towards electrophile. On the other hand, electron withdrawing group like $-\mathrm{COOH},-\mathrm{NO}_2$ etc., if present, reduces electron density and thus, reduces the activity of benzene nucleus towards electrophile. Thus, the order of the given compounds towards electrophilic nitration is Figure
Thus, toluene is most reactive towards electrophilic nitration.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'C'.

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