Question detail
How does the boiling point of hydrocarbons change as the molecular size increases?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Carbon compounds as fuels and feedstock
Question
How does the boiling point of hydrocarbons change as the molecular size increases?
Answer
As the molecular size of hydrocarbons increases, the boiling point also increases. This is due to the greater van der Waals forces between larger molecules, which require more energy to overcome during the phase change from liquid to gas.
Explanation
This answer demonstrates understanding of the relationship between molecular size and boiling point in hydrocarbons, testing the student's recall of key concepts in organic chemistry.
Common mistake
Boiling point misconception
Students think larger hydrocarbons have lower boiling points because they are lighter
Explain that larger hydrocarbons have higher boiling points due to increased London dispersion forces, which grow with molecular size and surface area
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