Chapter 23, Problem 15P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The more acidic phenol in each pair is to be identified.

Concept Introduction:

The acidity of phenols depends on the ease with which the acidic hydrogen is removed and the relative stability of the conjugate base that results after hydrogen is lost. The acidic nature in substituted phenols is governed by the electronic nature of the substituent.

In the ring, the electron withdrawing groups (EWG) decreases the electron density and thus; stabilizes the phenoxide ion. The EWG such as ${\text{NO}}_{\text{2}}$ enhanced the acidic strength of phenol. On the other hand, the electron donating groups (EDG) increases the electron density and thus; destabilizes the phenoxide ion. The EDG such as alkyl groups decreases the acidic strength of phenol.