What is the IUPAC name of m-cresol?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → 3-Methylphenol
Phenol, \( \ce{C6H5OH} \), is also the IUPAC parent name for its ring derivatives. The carbon carrying the –OH group is carbon 1, and the other substituents are numbered from it. The cresols are the methylphenols: ortho, meta and para mean positions 2, 3 and 4 relative to the –OH group.
\( \displaystyle o\text{-cresol} = \text{2-methylphenol}, \quad m\text{-cresol} = \text{3-methylphenol}, \quad p\text{-cresol} = \text{4-methylphenol} \)
So the IUPAC name of m-cresol, \( \ce{CH3C6H4OH} \) with the –\( \ce{CH3} \) group at position 3, is 3-methylphenol.
NCERT (2026-27 edition):
Phenols
Note: The same/similar question has been asked in different years by NTA as per the details given below:
| 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| – | 30-05 S2 13-05 S2 | – | – | – |