Question

The increasing order of the following compounds towards HCN addition is:

(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)

Options

• iii < i < iv < ii

• i < iii < iv < ii

• iii < iv < ii < i

• iii < iv < i < ii

Answer 1

iii < i < iv < ii

Explanation:

Nucleophilic addition reaction μ - I effect, μ - M effect

−NO₂ group is an electron-withdrawing group with higher electronegativity than carbon. As a result, it has a −I as well as a −M effect.