Phenols are distinctly more acidic than aliphatic alcohols. Which of the following theoretical conce — Alcohols Phenols and Ethers Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Acidity is determined by the stability of the conjugate base. Phenoxide is highly stabilized by resonance (delocalizing the negative charge to ortho/para positions), while alkoxides are not. Additionally, the $sp^2$ carbon of the ring is more electronegative than an aliphatic $sp^3$ carbon, withdrawing electron density and making the $O-H$ bond easier to break. The oxygen in phenol is $sp^3$ hybridized, not $sp$, making statement D incorrect.