Why Branched Alkanes have low boiling points as compare to unbranched Alkanes?
Boiling point is a thermodynamic property ( physical property) and we know, thermodynamics properties are controlled by strength of intermolecular forces.
Alkanes are non polar molecules and has London dispersion forces. London dispersion forces are directly related to moleculear size . Molecules with bigger sizes have more Polarizibility and high boiling points.
Branched chain alkanes have compact structure and less surface area of carbon chain hence have low Polarizibility as compare to its counter straight chain alkanes which have high Polarizibility more point of attachment for London forces along carbon chain.
That's why usually straight chain alkane have high boiling points as compare to its conter branched chain alkanes.
Superb
ReplyDeletethank you, your feedback powers me.
Delete