Phenol undergoes electrophilic aromatic substitution **faster** than benzene because:
AThe -OH group is a strong activator (electron-donor via +M resonance from O lone pairs); ortho/para-directing
BThe -OH group withdraws electrons
CPhenol has no electrophilic substitution
DPhenol is reduced first
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: A. The -OH group is a strong activator (electron-donor via +M resonance from O lone pairs); ortho/para-directing
OH lone pairs donate into the ring (+M), making ortho and para positions especially electron-rich → faster electrophilic attack. Bromination: phenol + Br₂/H₂O at room temperature gives 2,4,6-tribromophenol directly (white precipitate test) — benzene requires Lewis acid + heating for monobromination.