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Which of the following molecules would you expect to have the highest dispersion forces?

A. CH3CH3
B. CH3CH2CH3
C. C2H2
D. CH4
E. CH3CH2CH2CH3

User Ronline
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Final answer:

Butane (CH3CH2CH2CH3) has the highest dispersion forces among the given molecules due to having the largest molecular size and molar mass, leading to a greater area for dispersion forces to act on.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks which molecule out of the given list would have the highest dispersion forces. Dispersion forces, also known as London dispersion forces, are intermolecular forces that exist between nonpolar molecules as a result of the temporary uneven distribution of electrons. These forces are generally stronger in larger molecules because there is a greater area over which the dispersion force can act.

Comparing the given molecules, CH3CH2CH2CH3 (butane) will have the highest dispersion forces because it has the longest carbon chain and thus the largest molar mass among the options. This means it has more electrons and more surface area that can contribute to dispersion forces. The intermolecular forces and boiling points typically increase with increasing molecular size and mass.

The ordering from the molecule with the weakest to the strongest dispersion forces is: C2H2 < CH4 < CH3CH3 < CH3CH2CH3 < CH3CH2CH2CH3.

User Ahmad Boorghany
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