Organic Chemistry (8th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321768418
ISBN 13: 978-0-32176-841-4

Chapter 3 - Structure and Stereochemistry of Alkanes - Problems - Page 97: Problem 3-10 b

Answer

The increasing order of boiling points is : $(CH_3)_3C-(CH_3)_3\lt CH_3CH_2C (CH_3)_2CH_2CH_2CH_3 \lt octane$

Work Step by Step

All three alkanes have 8 carbon atoms. So, the boiling point depends on the extent of branching. More branching reduces the boiling point of the compound because of reduced surface area and subsequently lesser intermolecular attraction. The compound with the most branching has the least boiling point. Octane has the highest boiling point of the three since it is straight chained.
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