MCAT Organic Chemistry Question 77: Answer and Explanation

Home > MCAT Test > MCAT organic chemistry practice tests

Test Information

Question: 77

2. Order the following compounds by increasing boiling point: butane, butanol, butanone

  • A. Butanol < butane < butanone
  • B. Butane < butanone < butanol
  • C. Butanone < butane < butanol
  • D. Butane < butanol < butanone

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

Assuming the length of the carbon chain remains the same, the alkane consistently has the lowest boiling point. The boiling point of the ketone is elevated by the dipole in the carbonyl. The boiling point of the alcohol is elevated further by hydrogen bonding.

Previous       Next