If both are nonpolar and have the same molecular formula, I don't understand how butane can have a higher boiling point (-0.5 vs. -11.7).
2007-02-28 13:49:23 · 3 answers · asked by jttrwffle 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
In the case of these two molecules the only intermolecular forces present are dispersion forces. These depend on the size of the molecules but also on the available surface for interaction.
butane and 2-methylpropane have the same size, but 2-methylpropane is more branched and thus the available surface for interaction with other molecules is smaller. This makes the intermolecular forces for 3-methylpropane weaker and thus the boiling point lower.
2007-02-28 23:01:57 · answer #1 · answered by bellerophon 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
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RE:
Why do butane and 2-methylpropane have different boiling points?
If both are nonpolar and have the same molecular formula, I don't understand how butane can have a higher boiling point (-0.5 vs. -11.7).
2015-08-14 11:09:11 · answer #2 · answered by Deny 1 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Due to difference in structure,butane has effective packing at molecular level.
2007-02-28 14:10:52 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Methylpropane
2016-10-01 02:20:19 · answer #4 · answered by mcilwain 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋