Which compound will most easily be attacked by an electrophile?

Question

Canvas Classes · Accepted Answer

Step 1: Identifying the Most Reactive Compound
An electrophile attacks the ring with the highest electron density.
- Phenol (d):  group provides strong  (resonance) activation.
- Toluene (b):  is weakly activating (, hyperconjugation).
- Chlorobenzene (c):  is deactivating.
- Benzene (a): Reference.

Step 2: Conclusion
Phenol is the most activated and will be attacked most easily by an electrophile.

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