What is the IUPAC name for the compound indicated by the formula C6H5OH?

The compound represented by the formula C6H5OH is known as phenol. This name is derived from its structure, which consists of a hydroxyl group (-OH) bonded to a benzene ring (C6H5). In IUPAC nomenclature, when a hydroxyl group is attached to a benzene ring, it takes priority, resulting in the name "phenol," reflecting its classification as a simple aromatic alcohol.

Understanding the structure of phenol is crucial; it consists of a six-membered carbon ring with alternating double bonds, along with one hydroxyl group, which characterizes it as an alcohol. The presence of the benzene ring contributes to the compound's properties, including its acidity and reactivity compared to aliphatic alcohols.

The other options do not accurately describe C6H5OH. Acetic acid is a different compound featuring a carboxylic acid functional group, ethylene glycol is a diol with two hydroxyl groups on adjacent carbon atoms, and benzoic acid contains a carboxylic acid group attached to a benzene ring. Each of these compounds has distinct structures and functional groups, which set them apart from phenol.