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Chemistry Question 64 – JEE-MAIN 2026

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Given below are two statements : Statement (I) : Benzyl chloride reacts faster in SN1 mechanism than ethyl chloride. Statement (II) : Ethyl carbocation intermediate is less stabilized by hyperconjugation than benzyl carbocation by resonance. In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below :

Recall that the rate-determining step in an SN1 reaction involves the formation of a carbocation intermediate. The stability of this carbocation directly influences the reaction rate.

Step 1: Analyze Statement (I) regarding SN1 reaction rates.✦ Active

The rate of an SN1 reaction depends on the stability of the carbocation formed. Benzyl chloride forms a benzyl carbocation (C6H5−CH2+), which is highly stabilized by resonance with the benzene ring. Ethyl chloride forms an ethyl carbocation (CH3−CH2+), a primary carbocation stabilized only by hyperconjugation (3 α-hydrogens).

Since resonance stabilization is much stronger than hyperconjugation, the benzyl carbocation is significantly more stable than the ethyl carbocation. Therefore, benzyl chloride reacts faster in an SN1 mechanism. Statement (I) is true.

Step 2: Analyze Statement (II) regarding carbocation stabilization.○ Expand

Ethyl carbocation (CH3−CH2+) is stabilized by hyperconjugation. Benzyl carbocation (C6H5−CH2+) is stabilized by resonance. Resonance stabilization is a more effective and stronger mode of stabilization than hyperconjugation.

Thus, ethyl carbocation is indeed less stabilized by hyperconjugation compared to the resonance stabilization in benzyl carbocation. Statement (II) is true.

Step 3: Conclusion.○ Expand

Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are true. Therefore, option 1 is the correct answer.

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