It is impossible to synthesize diphenyl ether () using the Williamson ether synthesis. Which statement correctly explains this limitation?

Question

It is impossible to synthesize diphenyl ether ($C_6H_5-O-C_6H_5$) using the Williamson ether synthesis. Which statement correctly explains this limitation?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: C. The Williamson synthesis requires the nucleophile to displace a halogen. Aryl halides are highly resistant to standard nucleophilic substitution () because resonance gives the bond partial double bond character, preventing the attack.

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