Question

$p$-Nitrophenol is a stronger acid than phenol while $p$-cresol is a weaker acid. This can be explained as

• A. $— CH_3$ group decreases the electron density on oxygen of $O — H$ group making p-cresol a weaker acid
• B. $— NO_2$ group decreases electron density on oxygen of $O — H$ group making $p$-nitrophenol a stronger acid
• C. $— CH_3$ group increases the electron density on oxygen of O $— H$ group making release of $H^+$ easier
• D. $— NO_2$ group increases the electron density on oxygen of $O — H$ group making release of $H^+$ easier

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Correct answer is (b) $— NO_2$ group decreases electron density on oxygen of $O — H$ group making $p$-nitrophenol a stronger acid