Answer: the inductive effect controls reactivity while resonance controls orientation.
- A resonance controls reactivity while the inductive effect controls orientation
- B the inductive effect controls reactivity while resonance controls orientation
- C both reactivity and orientation are controlled by the inductive effect
- D both reactivity and orientation are controlled by resonance
Correct answer: B. the inductive effect controls reactivity while resonance controls orientation
Explanation: The −I effect is the stronger of the two overall, so the ring is deactivated; resonance pushes electron density to the ortho and para positions and so decides where substitution occurs.
SN2 proceeds in a single step with backside attack and inversion of configuration, while SN1 forms a planar carbocation intermediate first, leading to racemisation.
Concept context
Study carbon-halogen compounds: how they are made, how they react via SN1/SN2 and elimination, their stereochemistry, and their environmental impact.