Physical Properties
Study of boiling points, density, and solubility trends of haloalkanes.
What is Physical Properties?
The temperature at which the vapor pressure of a liquid equals the external pressure, and the liquid changes into a gas.
Key points
- Explain the trends in boiling points of haloalkanes based on molecular weight and halogen type.
- Describe the factors affecting the density of haloalkanes.
- Predict the solubility of haloalkanes in water and organic solvents.
- Compare the physical properties of haloalkanes with corresponding alkanes.
Common exam trap
Confusing the effect of halogen electronegativity versus atomic mass on boiling point and density.
Definitions
- Term
Boiling Point
- Meaning
The temperature at which the vapor pressure of a liquid equals the external pressure, and the liquid changes into a gas.
- Term
Density
- Meaning
Mass per unit volume of a substance.
- Term
Solubility
- Meaning
The ability of a substance (solute) to dissolve in a solvent to form a homogeneous solution.
Learning objectives
Explain the trends in boiling points of haloalkanes based on molecular weight and halogen type.
Describe the factors affecting the density of haloalkanes.
Predict the solubility of haloalkanes in water and organic solvents.
Compare the physical properties of haloalkanes with corresponding alkanes.
Prerequisites
Structure and bonding in organic compounds
Intermolecular forces (van der Waals, dipole-dipole)
Trends in physical properties of alkanes
Common mistakes
Confusing the effect of halogen electronegativity versus atomic mass on boiling point and density.
Assuming haloalkanes are soluble in water like alcohols.
Not considering the impact of isomerism on physical properties.
Keywords
haloalkanes
boiling point
density
solubility
intermolecular forces
van der Waals forces
dipole-dipole interactions
isomerism
organic solvents
Practice preview
Which of the following haloalkanes has the highest boiling point?…
easy
Which of the following compounds is expected to have the highest density?…
medium
Which statement is INCORRECT regarding the physical properties of haloalkanes?…
easy