Question:

Ortho-nitrophenol is less soluble in water than para and meta-nitrophenols because:

o- nitrophenol is more volatile in steam than those of m- and p- isomers.

none of these.

o- nitrophenol shows intramolecularH−bonding.

o-nitrophenol shows intermolecularH−bonding.

Solution:

Intramolecular hydrogen bonding decreases water solubility of o-nitrophenol, while para and meta-nitrophenols show intermolecular hydrogen bonding which increases their solubility in water. Hence, ortho-nitrophenol is less soluble in water than para and meta-nitrophenols. Hence, the correct option is 'B'.