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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a reason for the occurrence of electrophilic aromatic substitution in organic chemistry?
A
The presence of a nucleophile that attacks the aromatic ring
B
The stability of the carbocation intermediate formed during the reaction
C
The high reactivity of alkanes compared to aromatic compounds
D
The ability of aromatic compounds to undergo addition reactions
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that electrophilic aromatic substitution (EAS) is a reaction where an electrophile replaces a hydrogen atom on an aromatic ring.
Recognize that the stability of the carbocation intermediate is crucial in EAS. Aromatic rings, like benzene, can stabilize positive charges through resonance, which is a key factor in the reaction's mechanism.
Identify that the presence of a nucleophile attacking the aromatic ring is not relevant to EAS, as this reaction involves an electrophile, not a nucleophile.
Note that alkanes are generally less reactive than aromatic compounds in the context of EAS, as aromatic compounds have a stable π-electron system that can stabilize intermediates.
Understand that aromatic compounds typically undergo substitution rather than addition reactions to preserve their aromaticity, which is a significant driving force in EAS.