Which compound shows the highest boiling point

Explanation

CH3COOH (acetic acid) has the highest boiling point among the options at 118°C, primarily due to its ability to form strong hydrogen bonds, which require more energy (in the form of heat) to break during the phase change from liquid to gas. In contrast, C2H5OH (ethanol) and the ether compound have boiling points of 78°C and 82°C, respectively, due to weaker hydrogen bonding. Although (CH3CH2)3N (triethylamine) has a higher molecular mass of 101g, it does not engage in hydrogen bonding as effectively as acetic acid, resulting in a boiling point of only 89°C. Thus, the strength of intermolecular forces, particularly hydrogen bonding, plays a critical role in determining boiling points.