Alkyl halides have higher boiling points than the corresponding alkanes because

  • A. they contain hydrogen bonds
  • B. they are ionic
  • C. their molecules are lighter
  • D. they are polar and have greater molar mass, so intermolecular forces are stronger

Explanation

The polar carbon to halogen bond adds dipole to dipole attraction on top of the dispersion forces, and the heavy halogen atom increases those dispersion forces as well, so more energy is needed to separate the molecules. Boiling point rises from the fluoride to the iodide for the same alkyl group. Hydrogen bonding is not possible because hydrogen is not bonded to fluorine, oxygen or nitrogen here.

Related questions