[thomas49th]

Hi, why do hydrocarbon chains which have not been reformed have lower boiling points. What is the point of isomeration

Thanks
 

[thomas49th]

Well I found the answer:

Longer carbon chains have higher boiling points as the chains are able to get closer together, thus the intermolecular forces are stronger. Branched chains have lower boiling points as the chains cant get as close to each other, thus they're smaller intermolecular forces between them.

[enahs]

Ok. You question was worded poorly, but your answer is valid, if that does not seem to be what your question asks.

Now, do the same thing for melting point, this will illuminate something for you.

[thomas49th]

melting point would also be higher in long carbon chains than branched chains as it requires more engery to break the stronger molecular forces in chains than branches.

Can I ask if thermosoftening are branched carbon chains used and in thermosetting are long carbon chains used?

[exec]

melting point would also be higher in long carbon chains than branched chains as it requires more engery to break the stronger molecular forces in chains than branches.

I would beg to differ.

For branched chain which is very symmetrical, they can be packed much tightly together, and thus resulting in higher melting point.

This branched chain has low boiling point because they are more volatile. That is, their compactness results in less surface area for Van der Waals(intermolecular) forces to act to bind them.