Identify correct statement/s : (A) - OCH ₃ and - NHCOCH ₃ are activating group. (B) -CN and -OH are meta directing group. (C) -CN and - SO ₃ H are meta directing group. (D) Activating groups act as ortho - and para directing groups. (E) Halides are activating groups. Choose the correct answer from the options given below :

Step-by-step solution

- OCH ₃, NHCOCH ₃ and -OH are activating groups because the atom directly bonded to benzene ring activates the ring by +R effect using its lone pair of electrons. Activating groups are ortho- and para directing groups. -CN and - SO ₃ H are deactivating groups because the atom directly bonded to benzene is bonded to more electronegative atom through multiple bonds and they are meta directing groups due to -R effect. Halides are deactivating groups due to -I effect.