Q61 · Practice questionSimple familiar5 marks
QUESTION 61 (5 marks)
Three non-cyclic alkane structures share the formula .
a) Draw and name all three structural isomers. [3 marks]
b) Explain why the most highly branched isomer has the lowest boiling point. [2 marks]
WORKED SOLUTION
5 marksPractice marking scheme
Pentane; 2-methylbutane; 2,2-dimethylpropane. More branching reduces contact area and weakens overall dispersion attractions.
Structures: ; ; . The compact highly branched shape has less surface contact between molecules.
- Correct pentane structure/name. [1 marks]
- Correct 2-methylbutane structure/name. [1 marks]
- Correct 2,2-dimethylpropane structure/name. [1 marks]
- Links branching to reduced molecular contact area. [1 marks]
- Links weaker dispersion attractions to lower boiling point. [1 marks]
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