If both a methyl group and a hydroxyl group are attached to a benzene ring, which of the following is the preferred way to name the compound in the IUPAC system?
A) as a hydroxymethylbenzene
B) as a hydroxytoluene
C) as a methylphenol
D) all of these are equally acceptable

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The preferred name for a compound with both a methyl and hydroxyl group on a benzene ring is as a methylphenol, following the rule that substituents are listed alphabetically and the common name for the group with the higher priority (in this case, phenol) is used. "Hydroxymethylbenzene" is not a valid name and "hydroxytoluene" is ambiguous as to which position the substituents are on.

If Both a Methyl Group and a Hydroxyl Group Are