Question

Water(H₂O) and methane (CH₄) have similar molar masses. Methane changes from a liquid to a gas at -161 C. Water becomes a gas at 100 C. What could account for the difference?

Answer 1

The difference in boiling points between water and methane is due to the intermolecular forces. Water, which can form hydrogen bonds, has a higher boiling point compared to methane, which only has weak London dispersion forces.

Step-by-step explanation:

Water (H2O) and methane (CH4) have similar molar masses, but their boiling points differ significantly. Water has a boiling point of 100°C, while methane has a boiling point of -161°C. The difference in boiling points can be attributed to the intermolecular forces between the molecules. Water molecules can form hydrogen bonds, which are strong intermolecular forces, whereas methane molecules only have weak London dispersion forces. The presence of hydrogen bonds in water results in a higher boiling point.