JEE Main levelOne or more correct optionsDifficulty 2 of 3g1014
Which statements about the inductive effect are correct?
AIt operates only through conjugated pi systems.
BIts magnitude increases as the distance from the substituent increases.
CIt is a permanent effect.
DIt involves partial displacement of sigma electrons.
Answer: C, D
The inductive effect is a permanent polarisation of sigma bonds that dies out with distance. It does not need conjugation, and it weakens, not strengthens, along the chain.