What is the most effective way to determine the stability of carbocations?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on determining the stability of carbocations, specifically evaluating the effects of substituents like -I (inductive) and +R (resonance). Participants conclude that the presence of an -OCH3 group contributes to increased stability due to its +R effect, contrary to initial assumptions of it being an electron-withdrawing group. The consensus is that option 4 is the most stable due to the stabilizing resonance effect of the -OCH3 group. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding polar effects in organic chemistry.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of carbocation stability
  • Knowledge of inductive (-I) and resonance (+R) effects
  • Familiarity with organic chemistry terminology
  • Basic concepts of electron-donating and electron-withdrawing groups
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the effects of substituents on carbocation stability
  • Learn about inductive and resonance effects in detail
  • Explore organic chemistry textbooks that provide comprehensive solutions
  • Review polar effects and their implications in reaction mechanisms
USEFUL FOR

Students studying organic chemistry, particularly those preparing for advanced topics related to carbocation stability and polar effects. This discussion is beneficial for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of substituent effects in organic reactions.

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Homework Statement

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The Attempt at a Solution


Shouldn't the answer be 4?
It certainly isn't 1 or 3 because they have maximum -I effect
 
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How did you conclude it was 4 after you narrowed it down to 2 and 4?
 
Suraj M said:
How did you conclude it was 4 after you narrowed it down to 2 and 4?
OCH3 is an electron withdrawing group. So it will result in -R effect, making it less stable. Which leaves only option 4.
 
OCH3 is -R? Are you sure
I think you're confusing it with -I
 
Suraj M said:
OCH3 is -R? Are you sure
I think you're confusing it with -I
Oh, right. It has a +R effect, so more stable. Thank you!
 
Have you officially been taught all these polar effects? Because that's in 12th.
Are you reading ahead? If so I would advice you to solve from a book that provides detailed answers for these questions, it'll help you learn.
 
Suraj M said:
Have you officially been taught all these polar effects? Because that's in 12th.
Are you reading ahead? If so I would advice you to solve from a book that provides detailed answers for these questions, it'll help you learn.
At school we don't have any of these on syllabus, so I'm doing it on my own.
 
Okay then as I said
Choose a book with good solutions provided
And after a while you'll get a hang of it
Hey I think your school will have it next year ask your teacher
 

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