MHT CET Chemistry Question (2026) — Solution

Step-by-step solution

The reactivity of carbonyl compounds towards nucleophilic addition depends on steric and electronic factors. Steric factor: Ketones have two alkyl groups attached to the carbonyl carbon, which causes more steric hindrance to the approaching nucleophile compared to aldehydes, which have only one alkyl group and one small hydrogen atom. Electronic factor: Alkyl groups are electron-donating in nature due to the +I effect. In ketones, the presence of two electron-donating alkyl groups reduces the partial positive charge on the carbonyl carbon more effectively than the single alkyl group in aldehydes. This decreases the electrophilicity of the carbonyl carbon in ketones, making them less reactive towards nucleophilic attack. Therefore, the presence of two alkyl groups on a ketone decreases its electrophilicity. Answer: presence of two alkyl group on ketone decreases its electrophilicity