List the following alkenes in decreasing order of reactivity towards electrophilic addition. (Assume that there is no steric hindrance.)
(i) C\text{l}CH _2 CH = CH _2 \ (ii) \left( CH _3\right)_2 C = CH _2
(iii) CH _3 CH = CH _2 \ (iv) H _2 C = CHC\text{l}
Give reasons.
The presence of electron-donating groups such as alkyl group make the π-bond more electron-rich and more reactive. On the other hand, electron – withdrawing groups such as halogens make the π-bond more electron-poor, and less reactive.
Therefore, the order is
(ii) Two alkyl groups > (iii) One alkyl group > (i) One alkyl group with a Cl > (iv) Cl on a doubly bonded C.