Question

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

• A. Nitrobenzene
• B. Toluene
• C. Benzene
• D. Benzoic acid

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Presence of electron releasing group like, -R, -OH etc., increases the electron density at ortho/para position and hence makes the benzene ring more reactive at ortho/para position towards electrophile. On the other hand, electron with drawing group such as -COOH, -N 02 etc., if present, reduces electron density and thus reduces the reactivity of benzene nucleus towards electrophile. Thus, the order of the given compounds towards electrophilic nitration is ; $\therefore$ . toluene is most reactive towards electrophilic nitrations.