Question

Which of the following best explains why 1-butanol, CH₃CH₂CH₂CH₂OH, has a higher surface tension than its isomer, diethyl ether, CH₃CH₂OCH₂CH₃?
(A) the higher density of 1-butanol
(B) the lower specific heat of 1-butanol
(C) the lack of hydrogen bonding in 1-butanol
(D) the higher molecular mass of 1-butanol
(E) the presence of hydrogen bonding in 1-butanol

Answer 1

As the H bond of the butanol is more effective and strong than Van der Waals forces of the ether the surface tension in alcohol is more intensive.

So the correct answer is e)