Multiple Choice
Arrange the following compounds in order of increasing boiling point: CH4, NH3, H2O, CO2.
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13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Intermolecular Forces and Physical Properties
Multiple Choice
Which of the following substances has the highest boiling point (at 1 atm)?
A
(ozone)
B
(water)
C
(ethane)
D
(methane)
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the types of intermolecular forces present in each substance: ozone (O\_3), water (H\_2O), ethane (C\_2H\_6), and methane (CH\_4).
Recall that boiling point is largely influenced by the strength of intermolecular forces; stronger forces require more energy (higher temperature) to overcome.
Analyze each molecule: water (H\_2O) exhibits hydrogen bonding, a very strong intermolecular force; ozone (O\_3) has dipole-dipole interactions and London dispersion forces; ethane (C\_2H\_6) and methane (CH\_4) primarily have London dispersion forces, which are weaker.
Compare the relative strengths of these forces: hydrogen bonding > dipole-dipole > London dispersion forces, which suggests water will have the highest boiling point.
Conclude that because water has hydrogen bonding, it will have the highest boiling point among the given substances at 1 atm.
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