Question

Why does biphenyl have a higher boiling point than naphthalene?

a) Biphenyl has stronger intermolecular forces.
b) Naphthalene has stronger London dispersion forces.
c) Biphenyl has a higher molecular weight.
d) Naphthalene undergoes sublimation.

Answer 1

Biphenyl has a higher boiling point than naphthalene due to its more extended shape, which provides a larger surface area for London dispersion forces, ultimately leading to stronger intermolecular interactions.

Step-by-step explanation:

The reason biphenyl has a higher boiling point than naphthalene can be attributed to the stronger London dispersion forces due to its greater surface area allowing for more extensive intermolecular interactions. While both biphenyl and naphthalene are nonpolar molecules with similar molecular weights, biphenyl has a more extended shape that provides a larger surface area compared to naphthalene's more compact structure. This extended shape allows for increased London dispersion forces, resulting in a higher boiling point for biphenyl.