Question

In the following compounds, what is the increasing order of their reactivity towards nucleophilic addition reactions?

• A. Benzaldehyde $<$ p-Tolualdehyde $<$ p-Nitrobenzaldehyde $<$ Acetophenone
• B. Acetophenone $<$ Benzaldehyde $<$ p-Tolualdehyde $<$ p-Nitrobenzaldehyde
• C. Acetophenone $<$ p-Tolualdehyde $<$ Benzaldehyde $<$ p-Nitrobenzaldehyde
• D. Benzaldehyde $<$ Acetophenone $<$ p-Tolualdehyde $<$ p-Nitrobenzaldehyde

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The reactivity towards nucleophilic addition reactions is influenced by the electron-withdrawing or electron-donating groups attached to the carbonyl carbon. Strong electron-withdrawing groups increase the electrophilicity of the carbonyl carbon, making the compound more reactive. The order is: Benzaldehyde $<$ Acetophenone $<$ p-Tolualdehyde $<$ p-Nitrobenzaldehyde