Which statement is incorrect

Options

A. Phenol is a weak acid
B. Phenol is an aromatic compound
C. Phenol liberates `CO_(2)` from `Na_(2)CO_(3)` solution
D. Phenol is soluble in NaOH

Explanation

To determine which statement about phenol is incorrect, let's analyze each option step by step:

1. **Phenol is a weak acid.**
- Phenol (C6H5OH) can donate a proton (H+) to form phenoxide ion (C6H5O-). However, it does so to a lesser extent compared to strong acids like hydrochloric acid (HCl). Therefore, phenol is classified as a weak acid.
- **Hint:** Recall the definitions of strong and weak acids based on their ability to donate protons.

2. **Phenol is an aromatic compound.**
- Phenol consists of a benzene ring (aromatic) with a hydroxyl (-OH) group attached. Aromatic compounds are characterized by their cyclic structure, conjugated pi electrons, and stability due to resonance. Phenol meets all these criteria.
- **Hint:** Consider the characteristics that define aromatic compounds, such as cyclic structure and resonance.

3. **Phenol liberates CO2 from Na2CO3 solution.**
- This statement is incorrect. Phenol is not a strong enough acid to react with sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) to liberate carbon dioxide (CO2). Only stronger acids, such as hydrochloric acid or sulfuric acid, can react with Na2CO3 to produce CO2. Phenol does not have the acidic strength required for this reaction.
- **Hint:** Think about the relative strengths of acids and how they interact with carbonates.

4. **Phenol is soluble in NaOH.**
- Phenol is indeed soluble in sodium hydroxide (NaOH) because it can react with NaOH to form sodium phenoxide, which is soluble in water. This reaction occurs due to the weak acidic nature of phenol.
- **Hint:** Consider the solubility of compounds in basic solutions and the formation of salts.

Based on the analysis above, the incorrect statement is:

**Answer:** Phenol liberates CO2 from Na2CO3 solution (Option 3).