Question:

Which one of the following is most reactive towards nucleophilic substitution reaction?

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Reactivity order: Allylic > Benzylic >> Alkyl >> Vinyl/Aryl (least reactive)
Updated On: Apr 15, 2026
  • CH\(_2\) = CH – Cl
  • C\(_6\)H\(_5\)Cl
  • CH\(_3\)CH = CH – Cl
  • ClCH\(_2\) – CH = CH\(_2\)
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Reactivity in nucleophilic substitution depends on carbocation/transition state stability and resonance.

Step 1:
Analyze each option.
• (A) CH\(_2\)=CH–Cl → Vinyl halide (very less reactive, strong C–Cl bond)
• (B) C\(_6\)H\(_5\)Cl → Aryl halide (very less reactive, partial double bond character)
• (C) CH\(_3\)CH=CH–Cl → Vinyl halide (very less reactive)
• (D) ClCH\(_2\)-CH=CH\(_2\) → Allyl halide (highly reactive due to resonance stabilization)

Step 2:
Reason for high reactivity of allyl halide. Allylic carbocation is resonance stabilized: \[ CH_2^+ - CH = CH_2 \leftrightarrow CH_2 = CH - CH_2^+ \]

Step 3:
Conclusion. Allyl halide undergoes nucleophilic substitution most easily.
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