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Multiple Choice
Which of the following compounds is most likely to undergo nucleophilic aromatic substitution via the addition-elimination pathway?
A
B
C
D
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the functional groups present in each compound. The compounds shown are aromatic rings with a bromine substituent and various other substituents such as carbonyl groups, methyl groups, and methoxy groups.
Understand the mechanism of nucleophilic aromatic substitution via the addition-elimination pathway. This mechanism typically involves the addition of a nucleophile to the aromatic ring, followed by the elimination of a leaving group.
Recognize that electron-withdrawing groups on the aromatic ring can stabilize the negative charge formed during the addition step, making the substitution more favorable. Common electron-withdrawing groups include nitro groups, carbonyl groups, and cyano groups.
Analyze the position of the substituents relative to the bromine atom. Ortho and para positions relative to the leaving group (bromine) are more favorable for nucleophilic aromatic substitution due to resonance stabilization.
Evaluate the compounds: The first compound has a carbonyl group ortho to the bromine, which is an electron-withdrawing group that can stabilize the intermediate formed during the addition step. This makes it more likely to undergo nucleophilic aromatic substitution via the addition-elimination pathway compared to the other compounds.