6. Thermodynamics and Kinetics

For each set of reactive intermediates, rank them in order of reactivity (1 = most reactive).

(a)

The triphenylmethyl cation is so stable that some of its salts can be stored for months. Explain why this cation is so stable.

List the following carbocations in decreasing order of their stability.

Which is more stable: a methyl cation or an ethyl cation? Why?

Rank the following carbocations in each set from most stable to least stable:

b.

Rank the following carbocations in each set from most stable to least stable:

a.

Which carbocation is more stable?

b.

Which carbocation is more stable?

a.