NEETChemistryHydrocarbons
Why are meta directing groups often referred to as 'deactivating groups'?
Options
- AThey increase the electron density on the benzene ring.
- BThey make further substitution easier.
- CThey decrease the overall electron density on the benzene ring.
- DThey are highly reactive in electrophilic aromatic substitution.
Correct answer
C. They decrease the overall electron density on the benzene ring.
Step-by-step solution
Meta directing groups are often referred to as 'deactivating groups' because they decrease the overall electron density on the benzene ring, making further substitution difficult.