In this question, we are comparing the acidic strengths of four different compounds.
- M: The compound with the methyl ester group (-COOH) attached to the carboxylic group is the least acidic.
- N: The carboxylic acid group (-COOH) is more acidic than the methyl ester group.
- O: Phenols are weaker acids than carboxylic acids, so this compound will be slightly more acidic.
- P: Sulfonic acids are stronger acids compared to carboxylic acids or phenols, so this compound will be the most acidic.
Thus, M is the least acidic compound.
Final Answer:
M.