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Multiple Choice
Why are amides less electrophilic/reactive than esters?
A
Nitrogen is a worse electron-withdrawing group through resonance, making the carbonyl carbon less stable.
B
Nitrogen is a better electron-donating group through resonance, making the carbonyl carbon more stable.
C
Nitrogen is a better electron-withdrawing group through resonance, making the carbonyl carbon more stable.
D
Nitrogen is a worse electron-donating group through resonance, making the carbonyl carbon less stable.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of electrophilicity: Electrophilicity refers to the tendency of a molecule to attract electrons. In carbonyl compounds, the carbon atom is electrophilic due to the polarization of the C=O bond.
Examine the role of resonance in amides: In amides, the nitrogen atom can donate its lone pair of electrons to the carbonyl group, enhancing resonance stabilization. This electron donation reduces the electrophilicity of the carbonyl carbon.
Compare resonance effects in esters: Esters have an oxygen atom adjacent to the carbonyl group. Oxygen is less effective at donating electrons through resonance compared to nitrogen, making the carbonyl carbon in esters more electrophilic.
Analyze the electron-donating ability of nitrogen: Nitrogen is a better electron-donating group through resonance compared to oxygen. This increased electron donation stabilizes the carbonyl carbon in amides, reducing its reactivity.
Conclude why amides are less reactive: Due to the strong resonance stabilization provided by nitrogen, the carbonyl carbon in amides is less electrophilic and more stable, making amides less reactive than esters.