Boiling Point Comparison between 2-Pentanol and 2-Butanol

Medium Organic Chemistry Structure And Bonding

Consider the molecular structure of a simple organic compound, 2-pentanol (C₅H₁₂O), which is a secondary alcohol. This compound features a hydroxyl (-OH) group attached to the second carbon of a five-carbon alkane chain. Analyze the implications of its structure and bonding on its physical properties, including polarity, boiling point, and potential hydrogen bonding capabilities.

When comparing 2-pentanol to 2-butanol (C₄H₁₀O), consider how the additional carbon atom in 2-pentanol affects its overall molecular interactions. Which of the following statements is most accurate regarding the structural distinctions between 2-pentanol and 2-butanol and how they influence the properties of these compounds?

2-pentanol will have a higher boiling point than 2-butanol due to increased hydrogen bonding from the larger carbon chain.

Both compounds have identical boiling points due to similar molecular weights.

2-butanol has a higher boiling point than 2-pentanol because it is more polar.

2-pentanol has a higher boiling point than 2-butanol due to its greater molecular weight and branching.

Hint

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