Why is the melting point of saturated carbon chains greater than unsaturated carbon chains?

Unsaturated carbon chains contain one or more C-C double bonds. Due to the C-C double bonds, the chain is kinked which means it is not able to pack regularly which results in a lower melting point.

CH
Answered by Charles H. Chemistry tutor

3263 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Periodicity shows a fairly smooth increasing trend across a period for ionisation energy. However, between groups 2 & 3 and groups 5 & 6, the trend doesn't appear to be followed. Using your knowledge of chemistry, explain why the trend isn't followed here


What is the difference between intramolecular and intermolecular forces for covalently bonded molecules?


Describe how a buffer solution based on hydrochloric acid can act as a buffer. (5)


A 1000 cm3 container of ammonia (NH3) has a mass of 20.7g, it is stored at room temperature (298 K). When empty the container has a mass of 20.0 g, calculate the pressure inside the container in kPa to an appropriate number of significant figures.


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