Question

The following table lists normal boiling points for different substances:

Substance Boiling Point (°C)
propionic acid 140.8
acetic acid 117.9
acetone 56.24
2-methylbutane 27.9

Which of the following alternatives is true?
A. The vapor pressure of propionic acid is the highest of all the substances listed under these conditions.
B. The molecules of acetone experience the weakest interactions compared to any other substance listed.
C. The molecules of propionic acid experience the strongest interactions compared to any other substance listed.
D. Alterna

Answer 1

when a liquid boils, its molecules have to be separated from their neighbors so they can leave the liquid phase. the strength with which molecules grab onto their neighbors will change the temp at which the liquid boils. molecules that have weak holds on their neighbors will boil at low temps. molecules that have strong holds will not boil until much higher temps.

Answer 2

C. The molecules of propionic acid experience the strongest interactions compared to any other substance listed

higher temp needed hence stronger interactions

Answer 3

Thank you.