What is the correct order strength of chlorophenols:

Options

A. phenol `lt` p-chlorophenol `lt` m-chlorophenol `lt` o-chlorophenol
B. phenol `lt` m-chlorophenol `lt` p-chlorophenol `lt` o-chlorophenol
C. o-chlorophenol `gt` m-chlorophenol `gt` p-chlorophenol `gt` phenol
D. p-chlorophenol `lt` m-chlorophenol `lt` o-chlorophenol `lt` phenol

Answer

C

Explanation

I effect of a substituent increase the acidic character thus phenol has the least, acidic strength as compared to chloro substituted product. Closer is the group to phenoxide ion more with the acidic character.