Question

Out of Methane, Ethane and Propane which one has the highest boiling point?

Answer 1

Part 1: Propane (${\mathbf{CH}}_{\mathbf{3}}{\mathbf{CH}}_{\mathbf{2}}{\mathbf{CH}}_{\mathbf{3}}$)

1. Molecules with strong intermolecular forces will have high boiling points.
2. This is a result of the increased kinetic energy which is required to break the intermolecular bonds.
3. As the chain length (numbers of Carbons) is increased, the boiling points of the alkanes significantly increase.
4. Propane has 5 Carbon atoms.
5. Propane is having$\mathbf{-}\mathbf{42}\mathbf{°}\mathbf{C}$.

Part 2: Methane (${\mathbf{CH}}_{\mathbf{4}}$)

1. Methane has 1 Carbon atom.
2. The boiling point of Methane is$\mathbf{-}\mathbf{161}\mathbf{.}\mathbf{6}\mathbf{°}\mathit{C}$.

Part 3: Ethane (${\mathbf{C}}_{\mathbf{2}}{\mathbf{H}}_{\mathbf{6}}$)

1. Ethane has 2 Carbon atom.
2. The boiling point of Ethane is$\mathbf{-}\mathbf{89}\mathbf{°}\mathit{C}$.

Therefore, Propane has the highest boiling point.