Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!
Multiple Choice
Which of the following correctly ranks the leaving groups from worst to best?
A
<<<
B
<<<
C
<<<
D
<<<
0 Comments
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that the ability of a leaving group to depart depends largely on its stability once it has left, which is often related to the conjugate base's stability.
Recall that among halide ions (F⁻, Cl⁻, Br⁻, I⁻), the larger the ion, the more stable it is due to better charge distribution and lower charge density.
Recognize that the order of leaving group ability generally follows the trend: I⁻ > Br⁻ > Cl⁻ > F⁻, because iodide is the largest and most stable, while fluoride is the smallest and least stable.
Use this trend to rank the leaving groups from worst to best as: F⁻ < Cl⁻ < Br⁻ < I⁻.
Confirm that this ranking matches the correct answer given, and understand that any other order contradicts the fundamental principles of leaving group stability.