What is the main reason for the difference in boiling points between cis and tra
Practice Questions
Q1
What is the main reason for the difference in boiling points between cis and trans isomers?
Molecular weight
Dipole moment
Hydrogen bonding
Steric hindrance
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
What is the main reason for the difference in boiling points between cis and trans isomers?
Step 1: Understand what isomers are. Isomers are compounds that have the same chemical formula but different structures.
Step 2: Learn about cis and trans isomers. Cis isomers have similar groups on the same side, while trans isomers have them on opposite sides.
Step 3: Know what a dipole moment is. A dipole moment occurs when there is a separation of charge in a molecule, making it polar.
Step 4: Recognize that cis isomers usually have a higher dipole moment because their similar groups are on the same side, creating a stronger charge separation.
Step 5: Understand that stronger dipole moments lead to stronger intermolecular forces (the forces between molecules).
Step 6: Conclude that because cis isomers have stronger intermolecular forces, they require more energy (higher temperature) to boil compared to trans isomers.
