Step 1: Resonance Stabilization:
\[
C_6H_5OH \rightleftharpoons C_6H_5O^- + H^+
\]
Phenol ionizes to release H\(^+\), stabilized by resonance.
Step 2: Stronger Acid than Alcohols:
- Phenol (\( pK_a = 9.95 \)) is more acidic than alcohols because of resonance stabilization.