MCQ Detailed View

The hydroxyl group (–OH) is the functional group present in alcohols and phenols. It strongly influences the physical and chemical properties of a compound, such as solubility in water and the ability to form hydrogen bonds. Among the given options, three compounds contain the –OH group, while one does not.

Ethylene glycol (HO–CH₂–CH₂–OH) is a dihydric alcohol containing two hydroxyl groups. It is widely used as an antifreeze in car radiators and as a raw material in the manufacture of polyester fibers.

Glycerol (HO–CH₂–CHOH–CH₂–OH) is a trihydric alcohol with three hydroxyl groups. Its multiple –OH groups make it highly soluble in water and useful in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food products as a humectant.

Picric acid (2,4,6-trinitrophenol) is a derivative of phenol, meaning it contains an –OH group attached to a benzene ring. The presence of three nitro groups (-NO₂) on the ring increases its acidity, making it a strong organic acid compared to phenol.

Ethyl acetate (CH₃COOCH₂CH₃) is an ester. Its functional group is the ester linkage (–COO–), not a hydroxyl group. This makes it different from the other compounds listed. Ethyl acetate is a colorless, sweet-smelling liquid commonly used as a solvent in nail polish removers, paints, and laboratory extractions. It does not contain an –OH group in its structure.

Therefore, the compound that does not contain a hydroxyl group is ethyl acetate, because its structure is based on the ester functional group rather than alcohol or phenol.