Question

7. i.
   COOH CH3 ii.
   COOH CH3 iii.
   COOH CH3 iv.
   COOH

$\implies$ i > iv > ii > iii

Answer 1

i > iv > ii > iii

Answer 2

For benzoic acid derivatives, the –CH₃ group is an electron‐donating group (EDG) that destabilizes the conjugate base by increasing electron density. However, its effect depends on its position relative to –COOH. In (i) the –CH₃ is in the ortho‐position; steric hindrance partially prevents its full +I effect, so (i) is more acidic than benzoic acid (iv). In (ii) (meta) and (iii) (para), the –CH₃ exerts a stronger electron–donating (inductive) effect, further destabilizing the conjugate base; among these, (iii) (para) shows the maximum destabilization. Thus, the acidity order is:
  (i) > (iv) > (ii) > (iii).