The compound shown is the first product when a phenol reacts with methanal. Which of the phenols shown, reacting with methanal at its free ortho and para positions, can form a three-dimensional crosslinked network (a thermosetting resin like Bakelite)?

AStructure A
BStructure B
CStructure C
DStructure D

Answer: D

A 3-D network needs a monomer that can react at three positions. Phenol has two free ortho positions and one free para position, so it is trifunctional and gives Bakelite after condensation with methanal. 4-Methylphenol has only two free positions (linear chains), 2,6-dimethylphenol has one (chain end) and 2,4,6-trimethylphenol has none.

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