Cresol is :

Options

A. A mixture of three cresols with little phenol
B. Used as dye for wood
C. A soapy solution of cresols
D. Having an aldehyde group

Answer

To determine what cresol is, we can analyze the given options step by step.

### Step 1: Understand what cresol is
Cresol refers to a group of three isomeric phenolic compounds derived from toluene. The three isomers are ortho-cresol, meta-cresol, and para-cresol. They are often found together in a mixture.

### Step 2: Analyze the options
- **Option A**: Mixture of 3 cresols with little phenol.
- **Option B**: Used as dye for wood.
- **Option C**: A soapy solution of cresol.
- **Option D**: Having an aldehyde.

### Step 3: Evaluate each option
- **Option A**: This option correctly describes cresol as it is indeed a mixture of the three isomers of cresol (ortho, meta, and para) along with some phenol.

- **Option B**: While cresols can have applications in wood preservation, they are not primarily known as dyes for wood.

- **Option C**: Cresol is not typically described as a soapy solution; it is a phenolic compound.

- **Option D**: Cresol does not contain an aldehyde group; it is a phenolic compound.

### Step 4: Conclusion
Based on the analysis, the correct answer is **Option A**: Mixture of 3 cresols with little phenol.