Question Detail

CHM 102 Practice Questions Objective Question

Question

Which group forms the strongest H-bonds to water molecules?
Options
A Alcohols
B Ethers
C Phenols
Correct Answer
D All equally strong
Correct Answer

Option C is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

Phenols form the strongest hydrogen bonds with water because the O-H bond is more polarized (more acidic) due to resonance stabilization of the phenoxide ion, making the hydrogen more partially positive and thus a better hydrogen bond donor.

Hint

Which compound has the most polarized O-H bond?

Question Info