Question

Which is the correct order of acid strength from the following?

Options

• C₆H₅OH > H₂O > ROH

• C₆H₅OH > ROH > H₂O

• ROH > C₆H₅OH > H₂O

• H₂O > C₆H₅OH > ROH

Answer 1

C₆H₅OH > H₂O > ROH

Explanation:

The acidity is determined by the conjugate base’s stability. Phenol produces a more stable phenoxide ion and is somewhat acidic. ROH is the least acidic because its conjugate base RO⁻ is less stable than OH⁻, which is produced by H₂O, due to the positive inductive action of the alkyl group.