Answer:
The order of reactivity towards electrophilic susbtitution is shown below:
a. anisole > ethylbenzene>benzene>chlorobenzene>nitrobenzene
b. p-cresol>p-xylene>toluene>benzene
c.Phenol>propylbenzene>benzene>benzoic acid
d.p-chloromethylbenzene>p-methylnitrobenzene> 2-chloro-1-methyl-4-nitrobenzene> 1-methyl-2,4-dinitrobenzene
Explanation:
Electron donating groups favor the electrophilic substitution reactions at ortho and para positions of the benzene ring.
For example: -OH, -OCH3, -NH2, Alkyl groups favor electrophilic aromatic substitution in benzene.
The -I (negative inductive effect) groups, electron-withdrawing groups deactivate the benzene ring towards electrophilic aromatic substitution.
Examples: -NO2, -SO3H, halide groups, Carboxylic acid groups, carbonyl gropus.
