Which of the following monomers would react the slowest in an anionic polymerization initiated by the addition of butyl lithium?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The reactivity of a monomer in anionic polymerization initiated by butyl lithium is determined by its ability to delocalize the negative charge. Monomer I, which has a bulky tert-butyl group on the benzene ring, can hinder the delocalization of the negative charge and, thus, react slower than the other monomers. Monomers II, III, IV, and V can all stabilize the negative charge through resonance or inductive effects and are expected to react faster than monomer I.

Which of the Following Monomers Would React the Slowest in an Anionic