MHT CET202523 Apr 2025Evening ShiftChemistryAlcohols Phenols and EthersActual
Which of the following compounds has lowest solubility in water?
Options
- APhenol
- Bp-Cresol
- Co-Nitrophenol
- Dp-Nitrophenol
Correct answer
C. o-Nitrophenol
Step-by-step solution
The solubility of organic compounds in water depends on their ability to form hydrogen bonds with water molecules. Polar groups like -OH and -NO₂ tend to enhance solubility through hydrogen bonding interactions. Phenol (A) contains a hydroxyl group capable of forming hydrogen bonds with water, resulting in moderate solubility. p-Cresol (B) also contains a hydroxyl group but includes a hydrophobic methyl group that increases the non-polar character of the molecule, reducing its hydrogen bonding capacity and solubili