Chapter 7, Problem 30P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The following carbocation should be ranked in decreasing order of stability.

  

Concept Introduction:

The molecule in which carbon atom is linked with three bonds and carries one formal positive charge is known as carbocation’s. In these molecules, six electrons are present in their valence shell which makes them electron deficient. This makes them unstable electrophiles which bind with nucleophile (electron rich) to form new bond.

The stability ranking of carbocation can be determined on the basis of number of carbon atoms linked with carbocation.

Tertiary carbocation: Carbocation is linked with three carbon atoms.

Secondary carbocation: Carbocation is linked with two carbon atoms.

Primary carbocation: Carbocation is linked one carbon atom.

The order is given as:

Tertiary $\text{> Secondary > Primary}$

(More carbon atoms)