Chemistry - GOC Question with Solution | TestHub

Count the atoms : both formulas have the same carbon skeleton, and in both the positive charge is spread over the same three carbons of a pentadienyl system (C₂, C₄ and C₆). (a) is the resonance form with the charge on C₆ and (b) is the resonance form with the charge on C₄. They are two resonance structures of one cation, so the species have the same stability : a = b. (b), the tertiary form, is the larger contributor.