Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Conjugation
Conjugation refers to the overlap of p-orbitals across adjacent double bonds or lone pairs, allowing for delocalization of electrons. This delocalization lowers the energy of the molecule and can lead to increased stability and altered electronic properties, such as shifts in absorption wavelengths (lmax) in UV-Vis spectroscopy.
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lmax (Lambda max)
lmax is the wavelength at which a compound exhibits maximum absorbance in UV-Vis spectroscopy. It is influenced by the extent of conjugation in a molecule; more extensive conjugation typically results in a longer lmax due to lower energy transitions between molecular orbitals.
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Electron-Withdrawing and Electron-Donating Groups
Electron-withdrawing groups (EWGs) can decrease electron density in a conjugated system, often leading to a blue shift in lmax, while electron-donating groups (EDGs) can increase electron density, resulting in a red shift. The presence and position of these groups in the molecular structure significantly affect the electronic transitions and, consequently, the lmax.
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