Molecules of hydrogen chloride, HCl, and molecules of fluorine, F2, contain the same number of electrons. Hydrogen chloride boils at –85 °C and fluorine boils at –188 °C. Explain why there is a difference in the boiling points of HCl and F2.

F2 has temporary dipole-dipole interactions known as van der Waals’ forces. Whilst HCl has permanent dipole-dipole interactions. The intermolecular forces in HCl are stronger than that in F2 (permanent dipoles are stronger than induced dipoles). More energy is required to break stronger intermolecular forces, therefore, HCl has a higher boiling point

FG
Answered by Freddie G. Chemistry tutor

7570 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is a standard electrode potential?


What is le Chatelier's principle?


State the trend in electronegativity for the elements of group 17 and explain why this trend occurs.


Why do the boiling points of the hydrogen halides increase as you go down the group from HCl to HI?


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