The decreasing order of the rate of the above reaction with nucleophiles ( ) A to D is , (B) , (C) , (D)
- (A)✓ Correct
- (B)D C B A
- (C)A B C D
- (D)B D C A
Answer: (A)
Solution
With a simple primary substrate like the reaction runs by the path, so the rate tracks the nucleophilicity of the attacking anion. Among these oxygen nucleophiles methoxide is the most reactive because its negative charge is localised and least stabilised; hydroxide follows; phenoxide is weaker because resonance into the ring delocalises its charge; and acetate is weakest of all, its charge spread over two oxygens. The rate therefore decreases in the order .
JEE Main · 2006 · 30 Apr 2006 · Offline · Single correct option