The electrophile, $\mathrm{E}^{\oplus}$ attacks the benzene ring to generate the intermediate…
The electrophile, $\mathrm{E}^{\oplus}$ attacks the benzene ring to generate the intermediate $\sigma$-complex. Of the following, which $\sigma$-complex is of lowest energy?
Solution
$-\mathrm{NO}_2$ is electron withdrawing which will destabilize $\sigma$ - complex.
