Among the following geminal diols, which one is the least stable?

Step-by-step solution

Geminal diols are generally unstable and readily dehydrate to form the corresponding carbonyl compounds. However, their stability can be increased by the presence of strong electron-withdrawing groups (EWGs) attached to the central carbon atom. EWGs destabilize the carbonyl compound by increasing the positive charge on the carbonyl carbon, thereby shifting the equilibrium towards the geminal diol. They can also provide stability through intramolecular hydrogen bonding. Let us analyze the given options: (A) The cent