Question

all of the following structures have 6 carbons and 14 hydrogens, which of the following structures should have the smallest boiling point? a h3c ch3 d h3c ch3 h3c ch3 b ch3 h3c ch3 e ch3 h3c ch3 c h3c ch3 ch3 a b c d e

Explanation:

Step1: Recall boiling - point trend

For isomers (same molecular formula), more branched - out structures have lower boiling points due to decreased surface area and weaker London dispersion forces.

Step2: Analyze branching in each structure

Structure A is a straight - chain hexane. Structure B has one methyl branch. Structure C has one methyl branch. Structure D has two methyl branches. Structure E is 2,3 - dimethyl - butane with two methyl branches and is more symmetric and highly branched compared to D.

Answer:

E. 2,3 - dimethyl - butane