Question

Which among the following compounds has the highest boiling point?

• A. CH\(_3\)-CH\(_2\)-CH\(_2\)-OH
• B. CH\(_3\)-CH\(_2\)-COCH\(_3\)
• C. CH\(_3\)-CH\(_2\)-COOH
• D. CH\(_3\)-CH\(_2\)-CH\(_2\)-CHO

Hint:

Carboxylic acids typically have the highest boiling points among organic compounds due to the ability to form strong hydrogen bonds.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the factors affecting boiling point.
Boiling point increases with the presence of hydrogen bonding and the molecular weight. Carboxylic acids like CH\(_3\)-CH\(_2\)-COOH can form strong hydrogen bonds, which increase their boiling point compared to aldehydes, ketones, or alcohols.

Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) CH\(_3\)-CH\(_2\)-CH\(_2\)-OH: This is an alcohol, and while alcohols can form hydrogen bonds, they are less effective than carboxylic acids in terms of boiling point.
(B) CH\(_3\)-CH\(_2\)-COCH\(_3\): This is a ketone and has a lower boiling point due to weaker intermolecular forces compared to carboxylic acids.
(C) CH\(_3\)-CH\(_2\)-COOH: This is a carboxylic acid, and carboxylic acids have the highest boiling points due to their ability to form hydrogen bonds.
(D) CH\(_3\)-CH\(_2\)-CH\(_2\)-CHO: This is an aldehyde, and aldehydes generally have lower boiling points than alcohols or carboxylic acids.

Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (C) CH\(_3\)-CH\(_2\)-COOH, as it has the highest boiling point due to strong hydrogen bonding.