Question

Which is the most stable carbocation?

• A. Isopropyl cation
• B. Triphenylmethyl cation
• C. Ethyl cation
• D. $n-$ propyl cation

Answer 1

The correct option is B Triphenylmethyl cation

Stability of carbonium ions follows the order,
tertiary alkyl > secondary alkyl > primary alkyl > methyl
More the number of alkyl groups, the greater the dispersal of positive charge and therefore, more the stability of carbonium ion is observed. In triphenylmethyl cation, dispersal of positive charge increases with the increase in the number of benzene ring. Hence, it is the most stable carbonium ion.