Question

Phenol is less acidic than
(1) acetic acid
(2) $p$-methoxyphenol
(3) $p$-nitrophenol
(4) ethanol

• A. 1, 2 and 3 are correct
• B. 1 and 2 are correct
• C. 2 and 4 are correct
• D. 1 and 3 are correct

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Carboxylic acids are stronger acids than phenol. Presence of electron withdrawing group $\left(- NO _{2}\right)$ in $p$-nitrophenol makes it more acidic than phenol. Alcohols are weaker acids than phenol. Presence of electron donating group (methoxy) in $p$-methoxyphenol makes it less acidic than phenol.