Which has the more +I effect, -OCH_3 or - CH_3?

1 Answer
Dec 14, 2017

-CH_3

Explanation:

The methyl (-CH_3) group has the most I+ effect. Methyl groups are electron donating, and thus push electrons into the molecule.

The methoxy (-OCH_3) group has a I- effect. This is because oxygen has a high degree of electronegativity, and thus pulls electrons towards itself.