QuestionOrganic / hyperconjugation
The o/p-directing effect of methyl group in electrophilic substitution reaction of toluene is due to:
- (a) Inductive effect
- (b) Hyperconjugation effect
- (c) Resonance effect
- (d) Electromeric effect
Answer: (b) Hyperconjugation effect
CH₃ has no lone pair or π bond to give classical resonance. Its σ(C–H) electrons overlap with the ring π system (hyperconjugation, no-bond resonance), raising electron density at ortho and para → (b). Inductive (+I) effect is weaker and less position-specific.