Consider the following molecules and statements related to them:

(a) (B) is more likely to be crystalline than (A)
(b) (B) has higher boiling point than (A)
(c) (B) dissolves more readily than (A) in water
Identify the correct option from below:

1. Compound A (o-salicylic acid / 2-hydroxybenzoic acid):

   In the ortho-isomer, the hydroxyl group ($$\text{--OH}$$) and the carboxylic acid group ($$\text{--COOH}$$) are positioned adjacent to each other. This spatial proximity allows for the formation of stable, cyclic intramolecular hydrogen bonding (hydrogen bonding within the same molecule).




2. Compound B (p-salicylic acid / 4-hydroxybenzoic acid):

   In the para-isomer, the functional groups are far apart at opposite ends of the benzene ring, making intramolecular hydrogen bonding sterically impossible. Instead, it forms extensive network-like intermolecular hydrogen bonding with neighboring molecules, effectively binding them together into large molecular aggregates.

Evaluating the Statements:

• Statement (a): (B) is more likely to be crystalline than (A)

  Because of extensive intermolecular hydrogen bonding, the molecules of the para-isomer (B) pack more symmetrically, tightly, and effectively into a regular crystal lattice structure compared to the individual, discrete molecules of the ortho-isomer (A) But question does not provide structural evidence. Thus, (B) is more likely to be crystalline than (A) (False).




• Statement (b): (B) has a higher boiling point than (A)

  Intermolecular hydrogen bonding significantly increases intermolecular attractions, requiring much higher thermal energy to break the associations between molecules during a phase change. Intramolecular hydrogen bonding in (A) decreases its tendency to associate with neighboring molecules, making it more volatile. Thus, (B) has a higher boiling point than (A) (True).




• Statement (c): (B) dissolves more readily than (A) in water

  The para-isomer (B) can freely extend and form strong hydrogen bonds with external water molecules. Conversely, in the ortho-isomer (A), the functional groups are already internally engaged in chelation, making them less available to interact with water. Therefore, (B) dissolves more readily than (A) in water (True).

Conclusion:

All three statements—(a), (b), and (c)—accurately describe the logical consequences of intermolecular versus intramolecular hydrogen bonding in these positions.

Answer: (b) and (c) are true