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JEE Main levelSingle correct optionDifficulty 2 of 3g3063

Which of the following carbanions is the most stable?

  1. A
  2. B
  3. C
  4. D

Answer: C

A benzyl anion is stabilised by electron-withdrawing groups and destabilised by electron-donating groups. The para nitro group withdraws by and and takes up the negative charge directly on its oxygens. The methyl and methoxy groups are donors and destabilise the anion, so the nitro compound is the most stable.
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