The electrophile, `E^((o+))` attacks the benzene ring to generate the intermediate `sigma`-complex. Of the following which `sigma`-complex is of lowest energy?

Options

A.
B.
C.
D.

Answer

A

Explanation

Since `NO_(2)` is a powerful electron with drawing group, therefore, carbocation a,b and d are destabilized. However, in cabocation (C ) there is no `-NO_(2)` groups. Then `sigma` complex C is lowest energy.