Activating and 2,4-directing effect of the –OH group
What Activating and 2,4-directing effect of the –OH group means in Chemistry A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Activating and 2,4-directing effect of the –OH group
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Activating and 2,4-directing effect of the –OH group in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
The –OH group is electron-donating into the ring through lone-pair overlap with the delocalised π system, and it directs incoming electrophiles to the 2- and 4-positions.
Topics that use Activating and 2,4-directing effect of the –OH group
- Aromatic compounds (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Bond lengths in benzene
- Carbon–carbon bond formation in synthesis
- Comparison with carboxylic acids and the carbonate test
- Delocalised π system and electron density
- Delocalised π system in benzene
- Directing effects
- Directing effects of OH, NH₂ and NO₂
- Directing effects of the –OH group
Using Activating and 2,4-directing effect of the –OH group in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Chemistry questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge