Question

ethers are more volatile than isomeric alcohols.Why?

Answer 1

Dear Student,

Ethers have low polarity and therefore does not show any association by the intermolecular hydrogen bonding. On the other hand isomeric alcohol have strong intermolecular hydrogen bonding therefore boiling point is high. There is inverse relationship between boiling point and vapour pressure. Hence ethers are more volatile because their boiling point is low.