Based on the comparative structural differences between aliphatic alcohols and aromatic phenols, whi — 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?
💡 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.