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Chapter 27: Problem 16

In terms of intermolecular forces, why does the boiling point of a particular type of compound (for example, an alkane) increase as the molecular weight increases?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The boiling point of a compound increases as the molecular weight increases because larger molecules with higher molecular weights have stronger intermolecular forces. As a result, it requires more energy to overcome these forces, which is manifested as a higher boiling point.

Step by step solution

01

Understand Molecular Weight Effect

Molecular weight is the sum of the atomic weights of the atoms in a molecule. Larger molecules tend to have higher molecular weights. In the case of alkanes (hydrocarbons), as their molecular weight increases, so does the size of the molecule.
02

Understand Intermolecular Forces

Intermolecular forces are the forces of attraction or repulsion which act between neighboring particles like atoms, ions, or molecules. They can include forces such as Van der Waals forces (which involve induced dipole-induced dipole attractions). The strength of these forces often grows with the size of the molecules involved
03

Link Molecular Weight and Intermolecular Forces with Boiling Point

It takes a certain amount of energy to overcome the intermolecular forces to convert a substance from a liquid to a gas (i.e., to reach boiling point). Larger molecules with more atoms, and hence higher molecular weights, have stronger intermolecular forces (more specifically, higher Van der Waals forces). Therefore, compounds with higher molecular weights need more energy to overcome these forces and transition into a gaseous state, resulting in a higher boiling point.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

For each type of compound below, indicate how the boiling point changes as the molecular weight of the compound increases: a) alkane b) ketone c) alcohol

What is the difference between intramolecular bonds and intermolecular forces?

Rank these intermolecular forces in terms of their typical relative strengths: hydrogen bonding; dipole-dipole; induced dipole-induced dipole.

In the alkanes: a) what type(s) of intermolecular force is (are) present? b) what is the strongest intermolecular force present?

When water evaporates, are any bonds between \(\mathrm{H}\) atoms and \(\mathrm{O}\) atoms within a molecule broken?
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