Phenols contain an acidic hydroxyl group Phenol has antiseptic value, but damages healthy tissue H H Phenol(acidic) Phenoxide ion Hydrogen ion 0 Fig 12 12 the negative charge of the phenoxide ion is able to migrate to select positions on the benzene ring. This mobility helps to accommodate the negative charge, which is why the phenolic group readily donates a hydrogen ionPhenols contain an acidic hydroxyl group • Phenol has antiseptic value, but damages healthy tissue. O H O + H + Phenol(acidic) Phenoxide ion Hydrogen ion O O O O Fig 12.12 the negative charge of the phenoxide ion is able to migrate to select positions on the benzene ring. This mobility helps to accommodate the negative charge, which is why the phenolic group readily donates a hydrogen ion