CHEM BRAIN

 Due to electron deficiency on oxygen atom of the hydroxyl group (Structure II), their is a displacement of electron pair of O–H bond toward the oxygen atom. This facilitate the release of hydrogen as proton (H+ ).

The resulting carboxylate ion also stabilized by resonance (As negative charge is dispersed on both the oxygen atom). This enhance the stability of carboxylate anion and make it weaker base or strong acid.

\( acidity \propto  -I \ effect \)

FCH₂COOH > ClCH₂COOH > BrCH₂COOH > ICH₂COOH

 Inductive effect is stronger at alpha-position than beta-position similarly at beta- position it is more stronger than at gama -position 

\( acidity \propto \frac{1}{+I} \)

HCOOH > CH₃-COOH > C₂H₅-COOH