Question:

Arrange carbocations in increasing order of stability.

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Carbocation stability generally follows: Tertiary \(>\) Secondary \(>\) Primary \(>\) Methyl due to increasing hyperconjugation and inductive effects.
Updated On: Apr 22, 2026
  • Tertiary < Secondary < Primary
  • Primary < Secondary < Tertiary
  • Secondary < Primary < Tertiary
  • Primary < Tertiary < Secondary
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Concept:
Carbocations are positively charged carbon species. Their stability depends mainly on the electron-donating effect of alkyl groups. Alkyl groups stabilize carbocations through the +I (inductive effect) and hyperconjugation. Greater the number of alkyl groups attached to the positively charged carbon, greater is the stabilization.

Step 1:
Identify the type of carbocations.
• Primary carbocation: carbon attached to one alkyl group
• Secondary carbocation: carbon attached to two alkyl groups
• Tertiary carbocation: carbon attached to three alkyl groups

Step 2:
Apply stability rule.
More alkyl groups provide greater stabilization through inductive effect and hyperconjugation.

Step 3:
Arrange them in increasing stability. \[ \text{Primary}<\text{Secondary}<\text{Tertiary} \] \[ \boxed{\text{Primary<Secondary<Tertiary}} \]
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