How does increasing chain length alter the melting and boiling temperatures?

For a substance to melt or boil, heat energy must be supplied. This is to overcome Van der Waals forces. As the length of a chain increases, there are more Van der Waals forces present due to the chain getting longer, meaning more energy is required to break the bonds present. This causes the boiling and melting temperatures to increase.

RS
Answered by Rhea S. Chemistry tutor

8975 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between the empirical formula and molecular formula?


Define relative formula mass (Mr) and calculate the relative formula mass of CaCO3. (Ar: Calcium= 40; Oxygen= 16; Carbon= 12)


Describe the effect in terms of particles and collisions the effect of increasing temperature on rate of reaction?


Why do melting points decrease down group I?


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning