Consider the following compounds : [figure] Hyperconjugation occurs in
- III only
- I and III
- I only
- II only
Answer
(1) III only
Solution
Hyperconjugation in a free radical needs an α-H, i.e. a C–H bond on a carbon directly attached to the radical carbon.
I: the radical carbon is attached to C(CH3)3 (quaternary carbon, no H) and to the benzene ring carbon (no H) ⇒ no α-H ⇒ no hyperconjugation (only resonance with the ring).
II: the radical carbon is attached to three phenyl groups ⇒ no α-H ⇒ no hyperconjugation.
III: the radical carbon is attached to the bridgehead CH and to the CH carrying CH3 ⇒ α-H present ⇒ hyperconjugation occurs.
∴ III only.
Answer: (1)