Question:

Assertion (A): The presence of -OH group in phenols directs the incoming group to ortho and para positions.
Reason (R): -OH group in phenols activates the aromatic ring towards electrophilic substitution reaction.

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The -OH group has lone pairs on oxygen that are donated into the benzene ring by resonance (+M effect).
Updated On: Jun 16, 2026
  • Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  • Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  • Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
  • Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Concept: The -OH group has lone pairs on oxygen that are donated into the benzene ring by resonance (+M effect). This raises the electron density of the ring, activating it towards electrophilic substitution, so the Reason is true. The same resonance places the extra electron density specifically at the ortho and para positions, which is why the incoming electrophile is directed there, so the Assertion is true. The activation by -OH and its ortho/para directing nature arise from the same resonance donation, so the Reason correctly explains the Assertion.
Answer: Option (A) - both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A, since the lone pair donation that activates the ring is also what makes -OH ortho and para directing.
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