Which of the following is the least stable carbocation?
Correct answer: B. CH3+
- A. R3C+
- B. CH3+
- C. R2CH+
- D. RCH2+
Explanation
The stability of carbocations is increased by electron-donating groups, such as alkyl groups, through inductive effects and hyperconjugation. The methyl carbocation (CH₃+) has no alkyl groups attached and is therefore the least stable. The order of stability is tertiary > secondary > primary > methyl.
Last updated
About Fundamental Principles of Organic Chemistry
Organic chemistry begins with carbon compounds classified by carbon skeleton, saturation and functional group. Work includes identifying groups such as hydroxyl, carbonyl, carboxyl and amino, applying basic nomenclature, and distinguishing structural, geometric and optical isomers, where the same molecular formula does not necessarily mean the same structure or properties.
Practise Fundamental Principles of Organic Chemistry
536 free Fundamental Principles of Organic Chemistry MCQs from Chemistry, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.
Exams that ask Chemistry questions like this
Chemistry is on 12 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.