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In the sequence CH4, SiH4, GeH4, SnH4, which has the highest boiling point?
ACH4
BSnH4
CGeH4
DSiH4
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: B. SnH4
1. Their molar masses are approximately 16, 32, 77 and 123 grams per mole respectively.
2. Larger, heavier molecules hold more electrons and are more polarizable.
3. More polarizable molecules experience stronger dispersion forces.
4. Therefore CH4 is expected to have the lowest boiling point and SnH4 the highest boiling point.
_Source: OpenStax Chemistry 2e (CC BY 4.0), Ch 10 'Liquids and Solids', sections 10.1-10.6_
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