Compound (A) `C_(7)H_(8)O` is insoluble in aqueous `NaHCO_(3)` and dissolves in aqueous NaOH and gives a characteristic colour with neutral `FeCl_(3)` . When treated with `Br_(2)` (A) forms compound (B) `C_(7)H_(5)OBr_(3)` .
The most probable structure of compound A is :

Options

A.
B.
C.
D.

Answer

To determine the most probable structure of compound (A) with the molecular formula C7H8O, we will analyze the given information step by step.

### Step 1: Analyze the Solubility in NaHCO3 and NaOH
- **Given:** Compound (A) is insoluble in aqueous NaHCO3 and soluble in aqueous NaOH.
- **Interpretation:**
- Insolubility in NaHCO3 suggests that compound (A) does not contain a strong acidic group (like carboxylic acids) since such compounds typically react with NaHCO3.
- Solubility in NaOH indicates that compound (A) likely contains a weak acidic group, such as a phenolic -OH group.

### Step 2: Reaction with FeCl3
- **Given:** Compound (A) gives a characteristic color with neutral FeCl3.
- **Interpretation:**
- The formation of a colored complex with FeCl3 suggests the presence of a phenolic -OH group or an alcoholic -OH group. This is a characteristic reaction of phenols.

### Step 3: Reaction with Bromine
- **Given:** When treated with Br2, compound (A) forms compound (B) with the formula C7H5OBr3.
- **Interpretation:**
- The formation of a tribrominated product indicates that compound (A) likely has multiple reactive sites for bromination, which is typical for phenolic compounds.

### Step 4: Evaluate the Options
Now, we will evaluate the given options based on the above interpretations.

1. **Option A:** Contains -OH and -CH3 in ortho position.
- **Analysis:** This compound can dissolve in NaOH and gives a color with FeCl3. However, it will not give a tribrominated product as required. Thus, this option is incorrect.

2. **Option B:** Contains -OH and -CH3 in meta position.
- **Analysis:** This compound satisfies all conditions: it is insoluble in NaHCO3, soluble in NaOH, gives a color with FeCl3, and can yield a tribrominated product. Thus, this option is correct.

3. **Option C:** Contains -OH and -CH3 in para position.
- **Analysis:** This compound also dissolves in NaOH and gives a color with FeCl3, but it will not yield a tribrominated product due to steric hindrance. Thus, this option is incorrect.

4. **Option D:** Contains no -OH group.
- **Analysis:** This compound does not meet any of the conditions (not soluble in NaHCO3 or NaOH, and does not give a color with FeCl3). Thus, this option is incorrect.

### Conclusion
The most probable structure of compound (A) is represented by **Option B**, which is a meta-substituted phenol with a methyl group.