Water, H₂O,and methane,C H₄ ,have about the same mass and differ by only one type of atom.Why is the boiling point of water so much higher than that of methane? A)The water molecule is less symmetrical than is the methane molecule. B)The oxygen of a water molecule has two lone pairs of electrons. C)The electronegativity difference between oxygen and hydrogen is greater than the electronegativity difference between carbon and hydrogen. D)all of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

All of the given factors contribute to the higher boiling point of water compared to methane. Water is less symmetrical, and this leads to stronger intermolecular forces of attraction between water molecules. The oxygen atom in water also has two lone pairs of electrons, which can form hydrogen bonds with neighboring water molecules, further increasing the strength of intermolecular forces. Additionally, the electronegativity difference between oxygen and hydrogen is greater than that between carbon and hydrogen, leading to a more polar molecule and stronger intermolecular forces.

Water, H2O,and Methane,C H4 ,Have About the Same Mass and Differ

Water, H₂O,and Methane,C H₄ ,Have About the Same Mass and Differ