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Which of the following groups exhibits a -I (electron-withdrawing inductive) effect?

1. -OH
2. -C(=O)OH
3. -CH3
4. -OCH3

Correct answer: -C(=O)OH

Solution

The -I (negative inductive) effect is shown by electron-withdrawing groups. The carboxyl group -COOH withdraws electron density through the sigma framework due to the electronegative carbonyl oxygen and overall electron-deficient carbon. -CH3 shows +I (donating). While -OH and -OCH3 oxygens are electronegative (weak -I), in standard JEE classification the carboxyl group is the classic strong -I group; among the choices -COOH is the intended answer as the strongest, unambiguous -I group.

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