Question

Assertion (A): p-methoxyphenol is a stronger acid than p-nitrophenol.

Reason (R): Methoxy group shows +I effect whereas nitro group shows −I effect.

Options

• Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).

• Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of Assertion (A).

• Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.

• Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.

Answer 1

Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.

Explanation:

This is due to the nitro group's ability to remove electrons, stabilising the phenoxide ion created when phenol loses a proton. This makes it easier for the phenol to donate a proton, which raises the acidity of the phenol. Therefore, Reason (R) is true, whereas Assertion (A) is untrue.