Which compound has the lowest boiling point and why?

A.) CH3CH2OH
B.) CH3CH2CH2OH
C.) CH3CHO
D.) CH3COCH3
E.) CH3CH2CHO

I know that the correct answer is C.) CH3CHO but I do not know why.

Question

Which compound has the lowest boiling point and why? 

A.) CH3CH2OH
B.) CH3CH2CH2OH
C.) CH3CHO
D.) CH3COCH3
E.) CH3CH2CHO

I know that the correct answer is C.) CH3CHO but I do not know why.

aaronq · Answer

boiling point is dependent on the intermolecular forces between adjacent molecules

anonymous · Answer

what is it about the intermolecular forces of this particular molecule that makes it so much lower then the rest?

anonymous · Answer

Acetic acid has substantial H-bonding in the liquid phase.

anonymous · Answer

Sorry, I meant acetaldehyde.