The melting points and boiling points of two isomeric alkanes are asfollows: CH3(CH2)6CH3, mp = −57 °C and bp = 126 °C; (CH3)3CC(CH3)3,mp = 102 °C and bp = 106 °C. Explain why there is a small difference in the boiling points of the two compounds, but a huge difference in their melting points.

Chemistry: The Molecular Science
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Chapter2: Chemical Compounds
Section2.9: Organic Molecular Compounds
Problem 2.12E
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The melting points and boiling points of two isomeric alkanes are as
follows: CH3(CH2)6CH3, mp = −57 °C and bp = 126 °C; (CH3)3CC(CH3)3,
mp = 102 °C and bp = 106 °C.

Explain why there is a small difference in the boiling points of the two compounds, but a huge difference in their melting points.

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