The order of boiling points for the following functional groups, of similar molecular weights, is,
ether

Question

The order of boiling points for the following functional groups, of similar molecular weights, is,
ether < aldehyde < alcohol < carboxylic acid

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This order is correct because the boiling points increase as the strength of intermolecular forces (IMFs) between molecules increases. Ethers have only weak van der Waals forces, aldehydes have dipole-dipole interactions, alcohols have hydrogen bonding, and carboxylic acids have both hydrogen bonding and stronger dipole-dipole interactions. Thus, carboxylic acids have the highest boiling points and ethers have the lowest boiling points out of these functional groups.

The Order of Boiling Points for the Following Functional Groups