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Arrange the following compounds in order of decreasing acidity: (I) p-chlorophenol (II) p-cresol (III) p-nitrophenol (IV) p-methoxyphenol

1. II > IV > I > III
2. I > II > III > IV
3. III > I > II > IV
4. IV > III > I > II

Correct answer: III > I > II > IV

Solution

The correct order of acidity is determined by the electron-withdrawing and electron-donating effects of the substituents on the phenol ring. p-Nitrophenol (III) is the most acidic due to the strong electron-withdrawing nitro group, while p-methoxyphenol (IV) is the least acidic because the methoxy group donates electrons, reducing acidity.

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