In the following compounds,

The order of acidity is:

Options

A. `IIIgtIVgtIgtII`
B. `IgtIVgtIIIgtII`
C. `IIgtIgtIIIgtIV`
D. `IVgtIIIgtIgtII`

Answer

D

Explanation

Any factor which stabilizes bezoate phenoxides ion makes the corresponding phenol more acidic. `-NO_(2)` is an electron-attracting group whereas `-CH_(3)` is an electron -releasing group.
An electron -attracting substituent tends to disperse the negative charge of the phenoxide ion and thus, makes it more stable, which, in turn. Increasing the acid strength of phenol. The substituent in para position is more effective than in the meta-position, as the former involves a resonating structure bearing negative charge on the carbon attached to the electron-withdrawing substituent. An electron-releasing substituent tends to intensify the negative charge of the phenoxide ion and thus makes it more unstable, which, in turn, decreases the acid strength of phenol. Hence, the order of acid strength is