Among the followings the compound that can be most readily nitrated is:

Correct answer: C. Phenol

  • A. Benzoic acid
  • B. Benzene
  • C. Phenol
  • D. Chlorobenzene

Explanation

The hydroxyl group (−OH) in phenol is a strong activating group that enhances the reactivity of the aromatic ring towards electrophilic substitution reactions, such as nitration. The donation of electron density through resonance stabilizes the intermediate formed during nitration and allows for multiple substitutions. This makes phenol more readily nitrated compared to other compounds. Benzene, while capable of nitration, is less reactive due to the absence of electron-donating groups. Benzoic acid and chlorobenzene are both deactivated towards nitration due to their electron-withdrawing effects, making them less reactive than phenol.

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About Chemistry of Hydrocarbons

Hydrocarbons are studied through the structures and reactions of alkanes, alkenes, alkynes and aromatic compounds. Coverage includes free radical substitution in alkanes, electrophilic addition to carbon-carbon multiple bonds, benzene substitution, aromatic stability and the difference between addition reactions of alkenes and substitution reactions of benzene.

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