You are provided with seven distinct chemical compounds: 1-chloropropane, isopropyl chloride, 1-chlo — Haloalkanes and Haloarenes Chemistry Question
Question
You are provided with seven distinct chemical compounds: 1-chloropropane, isopropyl chloride, 1-chlorobutane, bromomethane, bromoform, chloromethane, and dibromomethane. Let $N$ be the exact total number of compounds in this specific list that possess a higher normal boiling point than simple chloromethane. What is the precise integer value of $N$?
💡 Solution & Explanation
Chloromethane ($CH_3Cl$) is the absolute lightest and smallest molecule listed here, meaning it has the weakest London dispersion forces. 1) Bromomethane ($CH_3Br$) has a heavier halogen $\rightarrow$ Higher BP. 2) Dibromomethane ($CH_2Br_2$) has two heavy halogens $\rightarrow$ Higher BP. 3) Bromoform ($CHBr_3$) has three heavy halogens $\rightarrow$ Higher BP. 4) 1-chloropropane ($C_3H_7Cl$) has a larger $C_3$ carbon chain $\rightarrow$ Higher BP. 5) Isopropyl chloride ($C_3H_7Cl$) is branched, but still fundamentally a larger $C_3$ molecule compared to $C_1$ $\rightarrow$ Higher BP. 6) 1-chlorobutane ($C_4H_9Cl$) has a massive $C_4$ chain $\rightarrow$ Higher BP. Thus, all 6 of the other compounds structurally possess stronger intermolecular forces and higher boiling points than chloromethane.