The compound(s) which will show significant intermolecular H-bonding is/are:

(a) o-nitrophenol (b) 4-acetamidophenol (paracetamol) (c) 2,4,6-trimethylphenol

Question

The compound(s) which will show significant intermolecular H-bonding is/are:

(a) o-nitrophenol (b) 4-acetamidophenol (paracetamol) (c) 2,4,6-trimethylphenol

Canvas Classes · Accepted Answer

Intermolecular H-bonding occurs between different molecules (requires accessible O–H or N–H groups).

Step 1 — Analyse each compound:

(a) o-nitrophenol: Has –OH and –NO₂ on adjacent carbons → forms intramolecular H-bond (6-membered ring) → the –OH is "used up" for intramolecular bonding → less intermolecular H-bonding ✗

(b) 4-acetamidophenol (paracetamol): Has –OH (phenol) and –NH– (amide) groups → both accessible for intermolecular H-bonding ✓

(c) 2,4,6-trimethylphenol: The –OH group is ster

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