Question

Why does CF₄ have a lower boiling point than CF₃H?

a) Greater Molecular Weight
b) Weaker Intermolecular Forces
c) Higher Electron Affinity
d) Stronger Hydrogen Bonding

Answer 1

CF₄ has a lower boiling point than CF₃H due to the differences in their intermolecular forces. CF₄ molecules are nonpolar and experience only London dispersion forces, while CF₃H molecules are polar and experience dipole-dipole forces in addition to London dispersion forces.

Step-by-step explanation:

The boiling point of a substance is influenced by the strength of its intermolecular forces. CF₄ has a lower boiling point than CF₃H because CF₄ molecules are nonpolar and experience only London dispersion forces, while CF₃H molecules are polar and experience dipole-dipole forces in addition to London dispersion forces. The dipole-dipole forces in CF₃H are stronger than the dispersion forces in CF₄, leading to a higher boiling point for CF₃H.