Question

The boiling point of alcohols increases with the increase in the number of carbon atoms but decreases on branching. Why?

Hint:

Boiling point trends in alcohols depend on molecular weight, branching, and intermolecular hydrogen bonding.

Answer 1

- Increase in boiling point:
Higher carbon atoms increase molecular weight and van der Waals forces.
- Decrease in branching:
Branching reduces surface area, weakening intermolecular forces.