Based on the inductive and resonance effects of substituents, which of the following compounds exhib — Alcohols Phenols and Ethers Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

The acidity of phenols depends on the stability of the phenoxide conjugate base. Electron-withdrawing groups (EWGs) like $-NO_2$ stabilize the negative charge through resonance and the -I effect, significantly increasing acidity. Electron-donating groups (EDGs) like the methyl group in p-cresol destabilize the anion, decreasing acidity. Alcohols are far less acidic than any phenols.