Question

Predict the product of the sulfonation of 1-ethoxy-4-fluorobenzene. Explain your reasoning for the placement of the sulfonate group.

Answer 1

This is mechanism of electrophilic substitution. In this pie electrons of benzene attack on the SO2 group and there is a formation of bond between S and carbon of benzene,.

In given molecule ethoxy group is ortho para directing. F due to its strong inductive effect pulls electron density towards it from benzene. So it is deactivates ortho and para as compare to metal position.

So attach will be done at the place which is para to the ethoxide and that should be metal position of the F.

Lets show the correct product.