What is the main reason for the difference in boiling points between cis and trans isomers?
Practice Questions
1 question
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
Cis isomers typically have a higher dipole moment due to their polar arrangement, leading to stronger intermolecular forces and higher boiling points.
Questions & Step-by-step Solutions
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Q
Q: What is the main reason for the difference in boiling points between cis and trans isomers?
Solution: Cis isomers typically have a higher dipole moment due to their polar arrangement, leading to stronger intermolecular forces and higher boiling points.
Steps: 6
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.
