When systematically comparing the normal boiling points of generic organic compounds possessing roug — Haloalkanes and Haloarenes Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

For a given alkyl group (R), the boiling point strictly depends on the molecular mass and the magnitude of the London dispersion forces. Alkanes ($R-H$) have the lowest mass and are non-polar, possessing the lowest boiling points. Replacing a hydrogen atom with any halogen introduces polarity and immediately increases the mass. As we move down the halogen group from Fluorine to Iodine, the atomic mass and electron polarizability increase massively, strengthening the van der Waals forces. Therefore, the boiling point continually increases: Alkane < Fluoroalkane < Chloroalkane < Bromoalkane < Iodoalkane.