Chemistry: The Molecular Science (5th Edition)

Published by Cengage Learning
ISBN 10: 1285199049
ISBN 13: 978-1-28519-904-7

Chapter 9 - Liquids, Solids, and Materials - Questions for Review and Thought - Topical Questions - Page 421a: 23

Answer

Hydrogen bonding

Work Step by Step

Unlike formaldehyde, where the oxygen is bonded only to carbon, the oxygen in methanol is bonded to a hydrogen. This allows for hydrogen bonding, which in turn leads to higher intermolecular forces. Consequently, methanol has a higher boiling point and has a vapor pressure of 100 mmHg at a higher temperature.
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