Based on the comparative structural differences between aliphatic alcohols and aromatic phenols, whi β Alcohols Phenols and Ethers Chemistry Question
Question
Based on the comparative structural differences between aliphatic alcohols and aromatic phenols, which of the following statements regarding their physical properties are true?
Answer: A,C,D
π‘ Solution & Explanation
Phenol has a higher boiling point than toluene due to intermolecular H-bonding. Polyhydric phenols have more $-OH$ groups, increasing water solubility. Branching decreases surface area and van der Waals forces, lowering boiling points. Statement B is incorrect; the $O-H$ bond in phenol is actually *more* polar than in alcohols (due to the electron-withdrawing $sp^2$ ring), leading to *stronger* H-bonding and greater acidity.
π¬Ask on WhatsApp β
Still have doubts about this question?
Send it to our AI chemistry tutor on WhatsApp β gets answered in minutes