Intermolecular forces
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What is the main type of interaction in pure butanone and in pure pentane?
Rev says
Pentane
Pentane only has hydrogen and carbon atoms in its structure. These two atoms have very similar electronegativities so the bonds are not polar and the molecule has no dipole. The only forces of attraction are van der Waal’s forces (induced dipole-induced dipole).
Butanone
Butane has a C=O bond. This is polar, and as the molecule is not symmetrical it will have a dipole. So the forces are:
The extra attraction between the molecules explains why the ketone is a liquid but the hydrocarbon is a gas.
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updated: 27 April 2004
