Question

Identify which of these molecules has the highest boiling point and give the reasoning why in terms of intermolecular force. CHCI3,CH3COOH, CO2

Answer 1

Answer:

CH3COOH

Explanation:

CH3COOH has the highest boiling point because it participates in the strongest intermolecular interactions. The -OH group can participate in hydrogen bonding with other -OH groups. Hydrogen bonds are very strong because they are the result of large partial positive charge on the hydrogen and large partial negative charge on the oxygen. When surrounded by other -OH groups, the partial positive charge on the hydrogen can form temporary bonds with the partial negative charge of an oxygen on another molecule. The stronger the intermolecular interactions, the more difficult they are to overcome, thus increasing the boiling point.

The strongest IMF the other molecules participate in are dipole-dipole. These interactions are not as strong as hydrogen bonding.