How many phenols of molecular formula `C_(7)H_(8)O` are possible ?

Options

A. four
B. Two
C. Five
D. Three

Explanation

To determine how many phenols can be formed with the molecular formula \( C_7H_8O \), we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the structure of phenols
Phenols are compounds that contain a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to a benzene ring. The general formula for phenols can be represented as \( C_6H_5OH \).

### Step 2: Analyze the molecular formula
The given molecular formula is \( C_7H_8O \). This indicates that we have 7 carbon atoms, 8 hydrogen atoms, and 1 oxygen atom.

### Step 3: Determine the possible structures
Since phenols have a benzene ring (which consists of 6 carbon atoms), we can start by placing the hydroxyl group on the benzene ring. The remaining carbon atom can be attached as a methyl group (-CH₃) to the benzene ring.

### Step 4: Identify the positions of the methyl group
The methyl group can be attached to the benzene ring in three different positions relative to the hydroxyl group:
1. **Ortho position**: The methyl group is adjacent to the hydroxyl group.
2. **Meta position**: The methyl group is one carbon away from the hydroxyl group.
3. **Para position**: The methyl group is opposite to the hydroxyl group on the benzene ring.

### Step 5: List the possible phenols
Based on the positions of the methyl group, we can identify the following three phenols:
1. **Ortho-methylphenol** (2-methylphenol)
2. **Meta-methylphenol** (3-methylphenol)
3. **Para-methylphenol** (4-methylphenol)

### Conclusion
Thus, there are **three possible phenols** with the molecular formula \( C_7H_8O \).

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