Answer: The ortho and para isomers.
- A Only the meta isomer
- B Equal amounts of all three isomers
- C Only the meta and para isomers
- D The ortho and para isomers
Correct answer: D. The ortho and para isomers
Explanation: Chlorine releases a lone pair into the ring by resonance, raising the electron density at the ortho and para positions, so the electrophile attacks there.
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.