Question

Is methyl an activating group?

Answer 1

Activating Group- Activating groups are electron-donating groups.

1. The methyl (${\mathrm{CH}}_3$) group is directing the position of electrophile or nucleophile due to electron donation ability. This decides the attack on the ortho, para, or meta position of benzene.
2. It is ortho - para directing group.
3. The following diagram will lead to a better understanding of ortho, para and meta positions-

Resonating Structure:

Hence, methyl (${\mathrm{CH}}_3$) is an activating group.