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NEET CHEMISTRYAlcohols, Phenols and EthersMedium

Question

Order of acidic strength of the following compounds will be: [Note: Specific structures for A, B, C, and D were not provided in the input, but typically involve Phenol and substituted phenols]

A

C > D > B > A

B

D > C > B > A

C

A > B > C > D

D

B > A > C > D

Step-by-Step Solution

The acidic strength of phenols depends on the stability of the phenoxide ion formed after the loss of a proton.

  1. Electron-Withdrawing Groups (EWG): Substituents like NO2-NO_2, CN-CN, and halogens withdraw electrons from the benzene ring via Inductive (I-I) and/or Resonance (R-R) effects. This dispersal of negative charge stabilizes the phenoxide ion, making the compound more acidic compared to phenol , . The effect is usually strongest at ortho/para positions due to resonance .
  2. Electron-Donating Groups (EDG): Substituents like alkyl groups (CH3-CH_3) or alkoxy groups release electrons (via +I+I or +R+R effects), intensifying the negative charge on the oxygen. This destabilizes the phenoxide ion, making the compound less acidic than phenol .

Note: Without the specific structures, the probable answer 'C > D > B > A' implies 'C' is likely a phenol with strong EWGs (e.g., nitrophenol) and 'A' is likely a phenol with EDGs or fewer EWGs.

Exam Context & Concepts Covered

This question aligns with the NEET CHEMISTRY syllabus, specifically targeting concepts from Alcohols, Phenols and Ethers. Mastering this topic is crucial for scoring well in the upcoming medical entrance examinations. Solving conceptually related problems will help you understand the nuances of these concepts and improve your problem-solving speed.

CHEMISTRYAlcohols, Phenols and Ethersacidicstrengthfollowingcompoundsspecific

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