In fractional distillation the shorter hydrocarbons have lower boiling points and distil off first. Why?

Boiling points are determined by the interactions between the individual hydrocarbon molecules. The weaker the interactions, the less energy is required to boil the hydrocarbon and the lower the boiling point. Shorter hydrocarbons have weaker interactions whereas longer hydrocarbons have stronger interactions between each other. As a result they have different boiling points and can be separated by fractional distillation.

HB
Answered by Hannah B. Chemistry tutor

5028 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain how we can increase the rate of a chemical reaction.(6 marks)


What is a catalyst?


What mass of calcium carbonate would you need to react with dilute hydrochloric acid to produce 10 g calcium chloride?


How do enzymes affect the rate of reaction?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences