Based on the experimental results of the oxymercuration-demercuration reaction, compare the stabilities of the carbocation and the mercurinium ion given below, and suggest why one is more stable than the other.

• A. Carbocation is more stable because of no torsional strain.
• B. Mercurinium ion is more stable because the product obtained shows no rearrangement.
• C. Carbocation is more stable because the product obtained shows rearrangement.
• D. Mercurinium ion is more stable because of the electropositive nature of mercury.

Answer: (B)