JEE Main · 2025 · Shift-ImediumHC-026

Following are the four molecules "P", "Q", "R" and "S": Which one among the four molecules will react with H-Br(aq) at…

Hydrocarbons · Class 11 · JEE Main Previous Year Question

Question

Following are the four molecules "P", "Q", "R" and "S": Which one among the four molecules will react with \ceHBr(aq)\ce{H-Br(aq)} at the fastest rate?

image

Options
  1. a

    Q

  2. b

    R

  3. c

    P

  4. d

    S

Correct Answera

Q

Detailed Solution

Step 1: Understand the rate-determining step

Electrophilic addition of \ceHBr\ce{HBr} to alkenes proceeds via carbocation formation as the rate-determining step. The compound that generates the most stable carbocation will be the one reacting fastest. image Answer: Option (a) — Q

Key Points to Remember:

  • Rate of electrophilic addition ∝ stability of carbocation intermediate
  • Exocyclic alkenes (like methylenecyclopentane) form very stable ring-junction carbocations
  • Tertiary > secondary > primary carbocation stability

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