Which of the following is the successive homologue of phenol ?

Options

A. Diphenyl carbinol
B. o-Cresol
C. Catechol
D. 2-Phenyl-2-propanol

Answer

To determine the successive homologue of phenol, we need to understand what a homologue is. A homologue is a compound that differs from another by a CH2 unit (or has a difference in molecular weight of 14 g/mol).

**Step 1: Identify the structure of phenol.**
- Phenol has the molecular formula C6H5OH. It consists of a benzene ring (C6H5) with a hydroxyl group (OH) attached.

**Step 2: Analyze the options given.**
- We need to look at the structures of the options provided (let's assume they are A: Diphenylcarbinol, B: O-cresol, C: Catechol, D: 2-phenyl-2-propanol) and determine their molecular formulas.

**Step 3: Calculate the molecular formula of O-cresol.**
- O-cresol is a derivative of phenol where a methyl group (CH3) is added to the benzene ring. Its structure is C7H8O.
- The difference in carbon atoms from phenol (C6H5OH) to O-cresol (C7H8O) is 1 carbon (CH2) and 2 hydrogens.

**Step 4: Confirm the difference in molecular weight.**
- The molecular weight of phenol (C6H6O) is 94 g/mol, while that of O-cresol (C7H8O) is 108 g/mol. The difference is 14 g/mol, confirming that O-cresol is a successive homologue of phenol.

**Step 5: Compare other options.**
- Check the other options:
- Diphenylcarbinol: C13H12O (not a homologue, too many carbons)
- Catechol: C6H6O2 (not a homologue, different oxygen count)
- 2-phenyl-2-propanol: C10H14O (not a homologue, too many carbons)

**Conclusion:**
- The only compound that is a successive homologue of phenol is **O-cresol**.