Which compound has a higher boiling point and why: water (H2O) or methane (CH4)?

Water has a higher boiling point because the hydrogen bonds that form among water molecules are stronger than the Van der Waals interactions among methane molecules, thus more energy must be provided in order to break the hydrogen bonds and allow the water molecules to escape the liquid state.

MD
Answered by Maria D. Chemistry tutor

41366 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe the stages of a heterogeneous catalyst reaction route.


In terms of bonding, state the order of boiling point of propane, ethanol and ethanal and why.


What is the difference between a sigma and pi bond? Use your answer to explain why there is fixed rotation about the C=C bond.


Explain how a catalyst can effect the rate of a forward and reverse reaction.


We're here to help

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

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning