Question

which of the following best helps to explain why hexane has a higher boiling - point than methanol has? a methanol molecules can form hydrogen bonds with other methanol molecules. b hexane cannot form hydrogen bonds with other hexane molecules. c methanol molecules have attractions to one another due to london dispersion forces. d hexane molecules have electron clouds that are larger than those of methanol molecules.

Explanation:

Boiling point is related to intermolecular forces. Hydrogen - bonding is a strong intermolecular force in methanol. Hexane has only London dispersion forces. Larger electron - clouds in hexane lead to stronger London dispersion forces. Since the strength of London dispersion forces in hexane exceeds the hydrogen - bonding and other forces in methanol, hexane has a higher boiling point.

Answer:

D. Hexane molecules have electron clouds that are larger than those of methanol molecules.