Identify the correct trend of acidic strength for the given alcohols.
Identify the correct trend of acidic strength for the given alcohols.
(I) $>$ (III) $>$ (II)
(I) $>$ (II) $>$ (III)
(III) $>$ (I) $>$ (II)
(III) $>$ (II) $>$ (I)
Solution
Primary alcohols are more acidic than secondary alcohols which are more acidic than tertiary alcohols. This is because the strength of alcohol as an acid is dependent on corresponding strength of its conjugate base, alkoxide ion. A more stabilised alkoxide is the weaker conjugate base and hence alcohol is more acidic.
Order of acidic strength is
(I) $>$ (II) $>$ (III)
