Question

List these homologous series in order of highest boiling points to lowest

C4H10, C6H14, C5H12, C7H16

Answer 1

To determine the boiling points of these homologous series, we need to consider the number of carbon atoms in each molecule. Generally, as the number of carbon atoms increases, the boiling point of the compound also increases. This is because larger molecules have a greater surface area, leading to stronger intermolecular forces such as London dispersion forces.

The order of the homologous series in terms of highest boiling points to lowest would be:

C7H16 > C6H14 > C5H12 > C4H10