The melting points of the first ten aliphatic carboxylic acids exhibit an "alternation effect". Why do even-carbon acids melt at higher temperatures than adjacent odd-carbon acids?

Question

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: B. The zig-zag structure of even-carbon chains places the terminal functional groups on opposite sides. This symmetry permits highly efficient close-packing in the solid crystal lattice, raising the melting point.

💡 Solution & Explanation

Practice 22,000+ questions like this