Chapter 6, Problem 6.30P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The more important resonance contributor from A and B is to be determined, and the reason behind this is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

The relative stabilities of resonance structures depend on the number of non-hydrogen atoms obeying the octet rule, the total number of bonds, the number of atoms bearing a formal charge, and charge stability.

Higher the number of non-hydrogen atoms obeying the octet rule and higher the number of bonds, more stable is the structure. Lower the number of atoms with formal charge, more stable is the structure. A positive charge is more stable on a relatively less electronegative atom, and more stable near an electron donating group. An electron-withdrawing group destabilizes a positive charge. Closer the electron-withdrawing group to a positive charge more is the destabilization.