JEE Main · 2026 · 28 Jan 2026 · Shift 2 · Hydrocarbons

The $-\mathrm{N}{\mathrm{O}}_2$ group withdraws electron density from the ring through its $-M$ and $-I$ effects. Reducing the ring's electron density deactivates it towards electrophilic substitution, while the resulting electron deficiency makes the ring more open to attack by nucleophiles, activating it towards nucleophilic substitution. The correct statements are that $-\mathrm{N}{\mathrm{O}}_2$ deactivates the ring towards electrophilic substitution and activates it towards nucleophilic substitution.