Why are the boiling points of ethers similar to those of alkanes instead of alcohols? a) Both ether molecules and alkane molecules are polar, whereas alcohol molecules are nonpolar. b) Hydrogen bonding between ether molecules is strong and this property is similar to that of alkanes. However, hydrogen bonding is weaker in alcohols than it is in both ethers and alkanes. c) Although ether molecules are polar, they cannot form hydrogen bonds with other ether molecules. Similarly, alkane molecules do not form hydrogen bonds, whereas there is hydrogen bonding in alcohols. d) None of these are correct explanations.

Intermolecular forces, particularly hydrogen bonding, influence boiling points. While both ethers…

Answered: Why are the boiling points of ethers…

Chemistry: The Molecular Science

5th Edition

ISBN:9781285199047

Author:John W. Moore, Conrad L. Stanitski

Publisher:John W. Moore, Conrad L. Stanitski

Chapter2: Chemical Compounds

Section2.9: Organic Molecular Compounds

Problem 2.12E

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Why are the boiling points of ethers similar to those of alkanes instead of alcohols?

a)	Both ether molecules and alkane molecules are polar, whereas alcohol molecules are nonpolar.

b)	Hydrogen bonding between ether molecules is strong and this property is similar to that of alkanes. However, hydrogen bonding is weaker in alcohols than it is in both ethers and alkanes.

c)	Although ether molecules are polar, they cannot form hydrogen bonds with other ether molecules. Similarly, alkane molecules do not form hydrogen bonds, whereas there is hydrogen bonding in alcohols.

d)	None of these are correct explanations.

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