While trans isomers dominate in melting point, Cis isomers typically possess higher boiling points. β Isomerism and Stereochemistry Chemistry Question
Question
While trans isomers dominate in melting point, Cis isomers typically possess higher boiling points. What is the fundamental physical chemistry reason behind this?
Answer: B
π‘ Solution & Explanation
Boiling point is dictated by the strength of intermolecular forces in the liquid phase. In a trans isomer, opposing bond dipoles often cancel each other out, making the molecule non-polar ($\mu \approx 0$). In a cis isomer, the dipoles add constructively, yielding a highly polar molecule with a net resultant dipole moment. This polarity creates strong dipole-dipole attractions, requiring more heat to boil.
π¬Ask on WhatsApp β
Still have doubts about this question?
Send it to our AI chemistry tutor on WhatsApp β gets answered in minutes