Chapter 19, Problem 19.43P

Interpretation Introduction

(a)

Interpretation: The explanation corresponding to the given statement that the $\text{p}{K}_{\text{a}}$ of $p\text{-}$nitrophenol is lower than the $\text{p}{K}_{\text{a}}$ of phenol is to be stated.

Concept introduction: The $\text{p}{K}_{\text{a}}$ value is inversely related to the acidic strength of the compound. The major factors that contribute to the acidic strength are $\text{s}$ character, inductive effect and polarity. The high percentage of $\text{s}$ character increases the acidity. There are two types of inductive effects named as positive or electron releasing and negative or electron withdrawing inductive effect. Positive inductive effect lowers the acidic strength of the compounds, whereas negative inductive effect increases the acidic strength of the compounds.

Interpretation Introduction

(b)

Interpretation: The explanation corresponding to the given statement that the $\text{p}{K}_{\text{a}}$ of $p\text{-}$nitrophenol is lower than the $\text{p}{K}_{\text{a}}$ of $m\text{-}$nitrophenol is to be stated.

Concept introduction: The $\text{p}{K}_{\text{a}}$ value is inversely related to the acidic strength of the compound. The major factors that contribute to the acidic strength are $\text{s}$ character, inductive effect and polarity. The high percentage of $\text{s}$ character increases the acidity. There are two types of inductive effects named as positive or electron releasing and negative or electron withdrawing inductive effect. Positive inductive effect lowers the acidic strength of the compounds, whereas negative inductive effect increases the acidic strength of the compounds.