Chapter 23, Problem 23.8YT

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Whether the aromatic ring of the monosubstituted compound is activated or deactivated relative to benzene in the given the electrostatic potential maps is to be determined.

Concept introduction:

In an electrostatic potential map, the red color indicates greater electron density. If the substituted benzene ring has greater red region, the ring is said to be electron rich. Thus the group attached to the ring must be electron donating and thus the activated group. If the substituted benzene ring is more blue or green, then the ring is said to be electron poor. Thus, the group attached to the ring must be electron withdrawing and thus the deactivated group.