MCAT Organic Chemistry Question 65: Answer and Explanation
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Question: 65
5. Which of the following correctly lists methanol, isobutyl alcohol, and propanol by decreasing boiling point?
- A. Methanol > isobutyl alcohol > propanol
- B. Isobutyl alcohol > methanol > propanol
- C. Isobutyl alcohol > propanol > methanol
- D. Methanol > propanol > isobutyl alcohol
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
All else being equal, boiling points increase with increasing size of the alkyl chain because of increased van der Waals attractions. Isobutyl alcohol has the largest alkyl chain and will thus have the highest boiling point; methanol has the smallest chain and will thus have the lowest boiling point.