Among the following, which carbocation is the most stable?

Step-by-step solution

The stability of a carbocation is enhanced by electron-donating groups which disperse the positive charge. The given species are para-substituted benzyl carbocations. The stability depends on the electronic effects of the substituents at the para position. In option (A), the - CH ₃ group is electron-donating through hyperconjugation ( +H ) and inductive effect ( +I ). In option (B), the - OH group is strongly electron-donating through resonance ( +R ). The lone pair on oxygen delocalizes to stabilize the positive c