Question:medium

Which of the following has lowest $pK_a$?

Show Hint

Electron-withdrawing groups (EWG) stabilize the carboxylate anion, increasing acidity.
Updated On: Jun 10, 2026
  • Structure 1
  • Structure 2
  • Structure 3
  • Structure 4
Show Solution

The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Link $pK_a$ to acid strength.
A lower $pK_a$ means a stronger acid. So the question is really asking which structure is the strongest acid.

Step 2: Know what makes an acid stronger.
An acid is stronger when the negative charge left behind after losing $H^+$ is well spread out and stabilised. Electron withdrawing groups pull electron density away and stabilise this anion.

Step 3: Spot the electron withdrawing groups.
Among the structures, look for strong electron withdrawing groups like the nitro group ($-NO_2$). Such groups greatly stabilise the conjugate base.

Step 4: Compare the structures.
The structure carrying the strong electron withdrawing nitro group at the para position stabilises its anion the most, making it the strongest acid.

Step 5: Pick the strongest acid.
The para nitro substituted acid (Structure 3) releases its proton most easily, so it has the lowest $pK_a$.

Step 6: State the answer.
So Structure 3 has the lowest $pK_a$.
\[ \boxed{\text{Structure 3}} \]
Was this answer helpful?
0