Question

answer the following questions about ethane($c_2h_6$), hexane($c_6h_{14}$), and octane($c_8h_{18}$). part 1 of 4 which compound has the highest boiling point? select part 2 of 4 which compound has the lowest boiling point? select

Explanation:

Part 1: Which compound has the highest boiling point?

For alkanes (like ethane, hexane, octane), boiling point increases with molecular weight (number of carbon atoms) due to stronger London dispersion forces. Octane (\(C_8H_{18}\)) has 8 carbons, hexane (\(C_6H_{14}\)) has 6, and ethane (\(C_2H_6\)) has 2. Higher molecular weight means more electrons and stronger intermolecular forces, so higher boiling point. Thus, octane has the highest boiling point.

Among alkanes, lower molecular weight (fewer carbon atoms) leads to weaker London dispersion forces and lower boiling point. Ethane (\(C_2H_6\)) has 2 carbons, hexane has 6, and octane has 8. So ethane has the weakest intermolecular forces and lowest boiling point.

Answer:

Octane (\(C_8H_{18}\))

Part 2: Which compound has the lowest boiling point?