Which of the following series represents the correct decreasing order of the negative inductive () e — GOC and Organic Chemistry Basics Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

The correct decreasing order of electron-withdrawing tendency ($-I$ effect) is $-NO_2 > -CN > -SO_3H > -COOH > -F > -Cl > -Br > -I > -OR > -OH > -NH_2$. Therefore, $-NO_2$ exerts a stronger pull than $-CN$, which is stronger than halogens and oxygen/nitrogen containing groups.