Assertion : p -Methoxyphenol is a weaker acid than m -methoxyphenol. Reason : The -OCH₃ group exerts a +I effect which destabilizes the conjugate base.

Step-by-step solution

The -OCH₃ group exerts a -I effect and a +R effect. In p -methoxyphenol, the +R effect of the -OCH₃ group is dominant over its -I effect. This increases the electron density on the phenoxide ion, destabilizing the conjugate base and making it a weaker acid. In m -methoxyphenol, the +R effect does not operate at the meta position. Only the -I effect operates, which stabilizes the phenoxide ion, making it a stronger acid. Thus, p -methoxyphenol is a weaker acid than m -methoxyphenol. The Assertion is true. The Reason