Compare the boiling points of the various isomeric hydrocarbons shown in the table below. Notice the relationship between boiling point and structure; branched-chain hydrocarbons have lower boiling points than the unbranched isomer. Speculate on possible reasons for this trend. Why might the intermolecular forces be slightly different in these compounds?

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Compound Hexane 3-Methylpentane 2-Methylpentane 2,3-Dimethylbutane 2,2-Dimethylbutane Boiling Point (°C) 68.9 63.2 60.3 58.0 49.7