Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Chemistry

Chapter

Organic: Haloalkanes and Haloarenes

Question:

Which of the following compound will have the maximum boiling point?

Options:

2-Bromobutane

Butane

1-Bromobotane

2-Methyl-2-bromopropane

Correct Answer:

1-Bromobotane

Explanation:

The correct answer is option 3. 1-Bromobotane.

Let us discuss the reasoning for 1-Bromobutane having the higher boiling point among the given options.

The boiling point of a compound is influenced by factors such as molecular weight, molecular structure, and intermolecular forces. In general, larger molecules and molecules with stronger intermolecular forces tend to have higher boiling points.

Now, let's compare the structures of the given compounds:

1. 2-Bromobutane: This is a straight-chain alkyl bromide with a longer carbon chain.

2. Butane: This is a straight-chain alkane with a shorter carbon chain compared to 2-bromobutane.

3. 1-Bromobutane:  Similar to 2-bromobutane, this is also a straight-chain alkyl bromide with a longer carbon chain.

4. 2-Methyl-2-bromopropane: This is an alkyl bromide with a branched structure.

In the context of boiling points, straight-chain molecules generally have stronger intermolecular forces compared to their branched counterparts. This is because the straight-chain molecules allow for a larger surface area of contact between molecules, promoting stronger Van der Waals forces.

In the case of 1-Bromobutane (Option 3), the longer straight-chain structure contributes to a larger molecular weight and a larger surface area for intermolecular forces compared to 2-Bromobutane (Option 1). Although 2-Bromobutane has a bromine atom at a secondary carbon (which can enhance dipole-dipole interactions), the overall effect of a longer straight chain in 1-Bromobutane can outweigh this factor.

Therefore, due to the longer straight-chain structure and associated stronger intermolecular forces, 1-Bromobutane is expected to have a higher boiling point compared to 2-Bromobutane, and that's why the correct answer is 3. 1-Bromobutane.