The order of ( ) and (-) inductive effect is essential to understand in organic chemistry. The inductive effect is an electronic effect that occurs due to differences in electronegativity between atoms. The (+) inductive effect is when an electron-donating group increases the electron density of a molecule, while the (-) inductive effect is when an electron-withdrawing group decreases the electron density of a molecule. In this article, we will discuss some tricks to learn the order of ( ) and (-) inductive effect.



The order of (+) inductive effect can be remembered by using the following tricks:

• The order of (+) inductive effect is determined by the electronegativity of the attached substituent. The higher the electronegativity, the higher the (+) inductive effect.


• Another trick is to remember the acronym I > N > O > F > Cl > Br > S > C > H. This stands for the electronegativity of the common substituents found in organic chemistry. The order of (+) inductive effect follows this sequence.


• Lastly, the order of (+) inductive effect can be memorized by understanding the concept of hyperconjugation. The more the number of alpha hydrogens, the higher the (+) inductive effect.

The order of (-) inductive effect can be remembered by using the following tricks:

• The order of (-) inductive effect is determined by the electronegativity of the attached substituent. The higher the electronegativity, the higher the (-) inductive effect.


• The order of (-) inductive effect can also be memorized by remembering the order of the halogens. The order is F > Cl > Br > I.


• Lastly, the order of (-) inductive effect can be memorized by understanding the concept of resonance. Resonance structures with a negative charge or pi bonds have a higher (-) inductive effect.

In conclusion, learning the order of ( ) and (-) inductive effect is crucial in organic chemistry. By using the tricks mentioned above, one can easily memorize the order and apply it in various organic chemistry problems. It is important to note that these tricks are not a substitute for understanding the concept of inductive effect. Therefore, it is essential to grasp the fundamental concepts before applying these tricks.