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Straight Chain - Branched Chain - Boiling Point.

A straight chain is made from carbon atoms
which are joined onto no more than two other carbon atoms.

Of the isomers of butane, n-butane has a straight chain.

A branched chain is made from carbon atoms where at least
one carbon* atom is joined onto more than two other carbon atoms.

2-methylpropane has a branched chain.

The two isomers have different boiling points (and other physical properties).
n-butane has a higher boiling point than 2-methylpropane.

In general, straight chain molecules have a higher boiling point
than isomers with a branched chain.
The reason is that straight chain molecules can line up beside each other
more effectively than branched chain molecules
and therefore have a higher intermolecular force of attraction.

In addition to straight chains and branched chains,
carbon atoms can form rings.

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Copyright © 2008 Dr. Colin France. All Rights Reserved.