What happens to the physical properties(solubility/boiling/melting point) as chain length increases, and as functional groups are added onto the chemical compound?

As chain length increases, the boiling/melting point of hydrocarbon compounds increases. This is because whether a compound will change state from liquid to gas (boil) or not, depends upon the intermolecular forces. The weak, but numerous van der waals forces increase and therefore more energy input is required, therefore BP is greater.

AK
Answered by Abbas K. Chemistry tutor

3317 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Sort the following compounds in order of increasing boiling point and explain your reasoning: hydrogen, hydrogen fluoride and hydrogen bromide


What is the difference between empirical and molecular formula?


How can I apply the knowledge I learn in lessons to tougher exam style questions ?


Explain why benzene is colourless whereas azo dyes (such as methyl yellow) are coloured.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning