Q42 / 150 · MHT CET 2025 (20 Apr Shift 2) · Chemistry
Which from following compounds has highest boiling point?
- AAcetaldehyde
- BPropionaldehyde
- CButyraldehyde
- Correct answerDValeraldehyde
Solution
Boiling points in organic compounds are governed by intermolecular force strength. Among homologous aldehyde series, increasing molecular weight and chain length enhance London dispersion interactions.
Molecular weights are calculated as follows: acetaldehyde (C2H4O) $\mathrm{MW} = 44.06$ g/mol, propionaldehyde (C3H6O) $\mathrm{MW} = 58.09$ g/mol, butyraldehyde (C4H8O) $\mathrm{MW} = 72.12$ g/mol, and valeraldehyde (C5H10O) $\mathrm{MW} = 86.15$ g/mol.
Valeraldehyde possesses the greatest molecular mass and longest carbon chain, resulting in the most substantial London dispersion forces. These stronger interactions necessitate higher energy input for phase transition, correlating with an elevated boiling point.
Answer: $\boxed{\text{D}}$
Hence, the correct answer is option: 'D'.