JEE Main Chemistry question

Which of the following compounds (positional isomers of a hydroxybenzoic acid, each bearing –OH and –COOH groups at different ring positions) has maximum volatility?

(A)The isomer in which –OH and –COOH are positioned to form a strong intramolecular (chelated) hydrogen bondCorrect
(B)An isomer with the two groups too far apart for intramolecular bonding, allowing only intermolecular hydrogen bonding
(C)Another isomer capable of extensive intermolecular hydrogen bonding
(D)A further isomer capable of extensive intermolecular hydrogen bonding

Answer: (A)

Solution

When the –OH and –COOH groups are positioned close enough to form a strong intramolecular hydrogen bond (chelation), that bonding "uses up" the groups' hydrogen-bonding capacity internally, leaving little capacity for intermolecular association between separate

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Question ID VK-156134