Arrange in order by decreasing boiling point: Cl₂, I₂, HI

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correct order of decreasing boiling point is HI > I2 > Cl2. This is because the boiling point of a substance is directly proportional to its intermolecular forces. HI has the strongest intermolecular forces (hydrogen bonding) and therefore the highest boiling point. I2 has weaker intermolecular forces (van der Waals forces) and therefore a lower boiling point than HI. Cl2 has the weakest intermolecular forces (dispersion forces) and therefore the lowest boiling point of the three substances.

Arrange in Order by Decreasing Boiling Point: Cl2, I2, HI

Arrange in Order by Decreasing Boiling Point: Cl₂, I₂, HI