See image — GOC and Organic Chemistry Basics Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

# Proton Loss Probability (Deprotonation) The maximum probability of proton loss depends on **carbocation stability** formed after deprotonation. ## Analysis of Each Option: **(A) $CH_3-CH_2^{\oplus}$** Primary carbocation — least stable **(B) $CH_3-\overset{\oplus}{C}-CH_3$ with $CH_3$ attached** Tertiary carbocation — highly stabilized by three alkyl groups **(C) Benzylic/Allylic carbocation on aromatic ring** Carbocation adjacent to benzene ring — stabilized by **resonance** with aromatic $\pi$ electrons. The positive charge delocalizes into the ring system through multiple resonance structures. **(D) $(CH_3)_2C^{\oplus}-CH_3$** Tertiary carbocation — similar stability to (B) ## Why (C) is Maximum: Resonance stabilization from the aromatic ring is **more effective** than inductive stabilization alone. The benzylic carbocation has the lowest energy due to: - Delocalization of positive charge across the aromatic ring - Multiple canonical forms distributing the charge - Aromatic character enhanced by resonance **Answer: (C)** — Benzylic carbocations have maximum stability and thus maximum probability of proton loss.