Question

Which of the following is incorrect for electrophilic substitution?

• A. -NO\(_2\) is deactivating and m-directing
• B. -Cl is activating and o, p-directing
• C. -OH is activating and o, p-directing
• D. -CH\(_3\) is activating and o, p-directing

Hint:

In electrophilic substitution, halogens like -Cl are deactivating but still direct substitution to the ortho and para positions due to their lone pairs.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understand the effects of substituents in electrophilic substitution.
Deactivating groups, such as -NO\(_2\), withdraw electrons and direct substitution to the meta position.
Activating groups, such as -OH and -CH\(_3\), donate electrons and direct substitution to the ortho and para positions.
Chlorine (-Cl) is a halogen, and while it is deactivating, it is ortho/para-directing because of its lone pairs, which allow it to donate electrons slightly.

Step 2: Identify the incorrect statement.
The statement in (b) is incorrect.
While -Cl is deactivating, it is ortho/para-directing, not activating as stated.