Explanation:
We know that more is the [tex]pK_{a}[/tex] value, weaker will be the acid. Also, an acid completely dissociates into ions in an aqueous base solution when [tex]pK_{a}[/tex] of conjugate acid of base is greater than acid.
4-methylphenol [tex](CH_{3}C_{6}H_{4}OH)[/tex] ([tex]pK_{a} = 10.26[/tex]) is quite soluble in its sodium salt. In NaOH, the dissociation will be as [tex]Na^{+}[/tex] and [tex]OH^{-}[/tex] ions as NaOH is a strong base.
Therefore, 4-methylphenol will readily dissolve in NaOH solution.
As, [tex]NaHCO_{3}[/tex] is not a strong base but as 4-Methylphenol forms a sodium salt hence, it will have a low solubility as compared to NaOH.
Whereas [tex]Na_{2}CO_{3}[/tex] is not a base but when dissolved in water it shows basic character as it produces NaOH (strong base) and [tex]H_{2}CO_{3}[/tex] (weak acid). As a result, the solution gets basic. Hence, 4-methylphenol will readily dissolve in [tex]Na_{2}CO_{3}[/tex].
