NEETChemistryAlcohols Phenols and Ethers
Why is the phenoxide ion more reactive than phenol towards electrophilic aromatic substitution?
Options
- AIt has a higher electron density on the aromatic ring.
- BIt has a lower electron density on the aromatic ring.
- CIt has a more stable resonance structure.
- DIt has a larger molecular size.
Correct answer
A. It has a higher electron density on the aromatic ring.
Step-by-step solution
The phenoxide ion has a negative charge on the oxygen atom, making it donate electron density to the aromatic ring, increasing its reactivity.