Question

Choose the substance with the lowest boiling point.

Answer 1

Answer:

E. O2

Explanation:

All substances has a simple molecular structure, where between their molecules are held by van der Waals' forces. But C must be incorrect because between the H2O2 molecules, they are mainly held by hydrogen bonds on top of van der Waals' forces. Hydrogen bonds are stronger than van der Waals' forces, so more energy is required to separate the H2O2 molecules.

In structures A and D, the molecules are polar. Their van der Waals' forces are stronger than Cl2H2 and O2, which are non-polar.

Between the Cl2H2 and O2, O2 has a smaller molecular size. The van der Waals' forces between the O2 molecules are hence the weakest. Least amount of energy is required to break the intermolecular forces between the O2 molecules therefore it has the lowest boiling point.