The figure shows the structures and names of some phenols.
In which of the following compounds are the two groups on the ring in the same relative positions as the two –OH groups of quinol?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → p-Cresol
The figure names quinol (hydroquinone) benzene-1,4-diol: its two –OH groups are at positions 1 and 4, opposite each other on the ring (para). p-Cresol is 4-methylphenol, with –OH at position 1 and –CH3 at position 4, so its two groups are also para to each other.
Why the other options are incorrect
Option (2) m-Cresol — Incorrect. It is 3-methylphenol; its groups are at positions 1 and 3 (meta).
Option (3) o-Cresol — Incorrect. It is 2-methylphenol; its groups are at positions 1 and 2 (ortho), as in catechol.
Option (4) Resorcinol — Incorrect. It is benzene-1,3-diol; its two –OH groups are meta to each other.
NCERT (2026-27 edition):
7.2 Nomenclature – “Dihydroxy derivatives of benzene are known as 1, 2-, 1, 3- and 1, 4-benzenediol.”
Common and IUPAC names of some phenols (7.2)