2. The structural formulas of two compounds in a homologous series are shown.
Why does the boiling point of compound Y differ from that of compound X?
A
Explanation:
The two compounds are part of a homologous series because they have the same functional group but different hydrocarbon chains. Both compounds are alcohols, so interact via hydrogen bonding.
The CH2 and CH3 groups of the alkyl chains, however, interact via weaker dispersion forces, as they contain only non-polar bonds. Increasing the length of the alkyl chain does not affect the strength of hydrogen bonding, but the strength of the dispersion forces is increased. More heat energy is needed to separate molecules of Y, so the boiling point is higher.