why are alcohols weaker acids than water?

Dear user!

Go through the text below to get the answer to your question.

In alcohols, the alkyl group has electron releasing inductive effect. Thus, it increases the electron density around the oxygen atom. Due to this, the electrons of the O – H bond are not sufficiently attracted towards the oxygen atom. Thus, the release of proton becomes difficult.

Alcohol is a Bronsted acid. It means that it can donate a proton to a strong base (:B^-).

Now, if this alkoxide is treated with water, then the starting alcohol is obtained.

These reactions suggest that water is a better proton donor than alcohol. In other words, it can be said that alcohols are weaker acids than water.

Hope, this answers your question,

Best wishes!!