Question

Benzene is less reactive than ethene and ethyne towards addition reaction due to

• A. the presence of $3\pi$ - bonds
• B. cyclic nature
• C. $s{p}^2$-hybridization of carbon atoms
• D. delocalization of $\pi$ electrons.

Answer 1

The correct option is D delocalization of $\pi$ electrons.

Both benzene and ethene are unsaturated hydrocarbons but benzene is less reactive than ethene due to extensive delocalization which causes stability. Benzene prefer substitution reactions over addition reaction. On the other hand ethane is less reactive than benzene due to their saturated nature.

Hence , option D is correct .