Carefully analyze the specific physical properties (boiling points and melting points) of the ortho, — Haloalkanes and Haloarenes Chemistry Question
Question
Carefully analyze the specific physical properties (boiling points and melting points) of the ortho, meta, and para isomers of dichlorobenzene. Which of the following comparative statements are scientifically accurate?
💡 Solution & Explanation
A) True. BP heavily relies on dipole-dipole forces; $o$ -dichlorobenzene ($\approx 181^\circ C$) has the largest dipole moment (vectors at $60^\circ$) and the highest BP. B) True. MP relies on packing efficiency; the linear $p$ -isomer ($\approx +54^\circ C$) packs perfectly. C) False. The $p$ -isomer's dipoles completely cancel out (zero dipole moment), not the $m$ -isomer's. Despite this, the $p$ -isomer has the highest MP. The $m$ -isomer has the lowest MP ($\approx -25^\circ C$) due to poor packing geometry, but its BP is intermediate ($\approx 173^\circ C$). D) True. Because the $p$ -isomer is a highly stable solid crystal at room temperature, dissolving it requires breaking that strong lattice, making it generally less soluble than its liquid $o$ - and $m$ - counterparts.