Question

Difference between inductive effect and mesomeric effect.

Answer 1

Inductive effect	Mesomeric effect
1. It operates in saturated compounds, i.e. compounds containing sigma bond.	1. It operates in unsaturated compounds, i.e. compound having pi bond.
2. The electron pair is slightly displaced from its position and hence partial charges are developed.	2. The electron pair is completely transferred and hence unit positive and negative charges are developed.
3. It is transmitted over a short distance and becomes negligible after the third carbon atom in the chain.	3. It is transmitted through the entire chain provided conjugation is present.