Question

The correct order of reactivity towards electrophilic substitution is

• A. phenol $>$ benzene $>$ chlorobenzene $>$ benzoic acid
• B. benzoic acid $>$ chlorobenzene $>$ benzene $>$ phenol
• C. phenol $>$ chlorobenzene $>$ benzene $>$ benzoic acid
• D. benzoic acid $>$ phenol $>$ benzene $>$ chlorobenzene

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

In general electron-releasing groups activate and electron withdrawing groups deactivate the benzene ring towards electrophilic substitutions. Thus order of reactivity is: