Chapter 15.1, Problem 5LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: To determine the reason for the different boiling points of methane and water molecule.

Concept Introduction: The force which is present in the molecule of the atom can be referred to as an intermolecular force. It may be hydrogen bonding, London dispersion force as well as dipole-dipole interaction force.

Answer to Problem 5LC

Water has a ${\text{100}}^{\text{ο}}\text{C}$ boiling point whereas methane has ${\text{-161}}^{\text{ο}}\text{C}$ because water molecule has intermolecular hydrogen bonding and methane has not.

Explanation of Solution

It is known that as the intermolecular force increases, the boiling point of the molecule increases. The water molecule has the strongest hydrogen bonding intermolecular force, on the other hand, methane has the weakest London dispersion force that why water has a higher boiling point than methane.