Which has a lower boiling point chlorine or bromine, and why?

Chlorine, as chlorine has fewer electrons shells than bromine. As a result, chlorine is smaller and has a smaller atomic radius

The difference in size, relates to boiling point of the molecule. This is because the size effects the strength of the forces between the molecules (intermolecular forces). The strength of the intermolecular forces increases with increasing size of the molecule. Therefore, bromine is larger and has stronger intermolecular forces, meaning it requires more heat energy to break the strong bonds (high boiling point). So in conclusion chlorine has a lower boiling point. 

MF

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

In transition metals, where does the formation of colour come from?


What is hybridisation and how can it be used to explain the shapes of molecules?


Explain how CH3CH2CHO can react with a Grignard reagent to produce CH3CH2CH(OH)CH2CH3. State the reagents and give the mechanism.


An alcohol, X has an Mr of 74 and percentage composition of 64.9% Carbon, 13.5% Hydrogen and 21.6% Oxygen. It does not turn potassium dichromate (VI) green. Determine the structural formula of X, and state its name.