Question

Arrange the following set of carbocations in order of decreasing stability. 

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (C), (A), (D), (B)
• B. (D), (A), (C), (B)
• C. (B), (A), (D), (C)
• D. (C), (B), (D), (A)

Hint:

Resonance stabilization significantly increases the stability of carbocations.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Carbocation Stability Assessment.
Carbocation stability is enhanced by increased alkyl substitution and resonance. The carbocation exhibiting the greatest resonance stabilization is the most stable.

Step 2: Option Evaluation.
- (C) \( \text{C}_6\text{H}_5 \text{CH}_3^+ \) achieves maximum stability due to resonance with the aromatic ring.
- (A) \( \text{C}_6\text{H}_5 \text{CH}_2^+ \) is less stable than (C) as the methyl group in (C) provides superior stabilization.
- (D) \( \text{C}_6\text{H}_5 \text{CH}_2^+ \) exhibits reduced resonance stabilization.
- (B) \( \text{C}_6\text{H}_5 \text{CH}_2^+ \) demonstrates the least stability.

Step 3: Determination of Order.
Consequently, the order of decreasing stability is determined to be (C), (A), (D), (B).

Final Answer:
\[\boxed{\text{(1) (C), (A), (D), (B)}}\]