Predict the relative boiling points of propanal, butane and prop-2-en-1-ol from the highest to the lowest boiling point

In prop-2-en-1-ol, the strongest intermolecular forces acting between the molecules are hydrogen bonds. In propanal, the strongest intermolecular forces acting between molecules would be permanent dipole-dipole forces. Between butane molecules, there would just be van der Waals forces. Since hydrogen bonds are stronger than permanent dipole-dipole forces, which are in turn stronger than van der waals forces, it follows that the order of boiling points from highest to lowest is: prop-2-en-1-ol, propanal and butane.

Answered by Rajan K. Chemistry tutor

30292 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

How does a change in temperature affect the Kc value when the forward reaction is exothermic?


What are isotopes?


What is meant by terms 'saturated' and 'unsaturated' when applied to alkanes and alkenes? Describe a chemical test to distinguish between the liquids hexane and hexene.


How do mass spectrometers work?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences