Based on the strength of their molecular dipole moments, which compound should have the higher boiling point, \(\mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{~S}\) or \(\mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}\) ? Explain.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Based on the electronegativity differences, H₂O has a stronger molecular dipole moment (1.24) than H₂S (0.38). Therefore, H₂O should have a higher boiling point than H₂S due to its stronger molecular dipole moment.

Step by step solution

01

Determine the electronegativity of each involved atom

To evaluate the molecular dipole moments of the compounds, first, we need to understand the electronegativity of the involved atoms. Electronegativity values can be found in various references, such as an electronegativity table or the periodic table. In general, electronegativity increases as you move across the periodic table from left to right and decreases as you move down a group. Electronegativity values for atoms involved: - Hydrogen (H): 2.20 - Oxygen (O): 3.44 - Sulfur (S): 2.58
02

Calculate the electronegativity differences in H₂S and H₂O

Now that we have the electronegativity values for the involved atoms, we can calculate the electronegativity differences in the two compounds: For H₂S: Electronegativity difference: |2.58 (S) - 2.20 (H)| = 0.38 For H₂O: Electronegativity difference: |3.44 (O) - 2.20 (H)| = 1.24
03

Analyze the molecular dipole moments based on electronegativity differences

As we can see, the electronegativity difference in H₂O (1.24) is greater than that in H₂S (0.38). This suggests that the molecular dipole moment in H₂O is stronger than in H₂S. Recall that a greater molecular dipole moment results in a higher boiling point.
04

Conclusion

Based on the strength of their molecular dipole moments determined by the electronegativity differences, H₂O should have a higher boiling point than H₂S due to its stronger molecular dipole moment (1.24 > 0.38).

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free