Question

What is the melting point of the symmetrical alkanes?

Answer 1

Hint: When compared to molecules of same structure but lesser symmetry, symmetrical molecules in crystalline form have greater melting temperatures and lower solubilities. The melting characteristics and solubility of organic compounds are influenced by molecular symmetry. The physical qualities of an organic compound are significant because they influence how the substance is handled and used.

Complete answer:
Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons, indicating they have all of their carbon atoms connected to other carbon atoms or hydrogen atoms by just sigma bonds.
The melting point of symmetrical molecules is higher because their symmetrical shapes fit better in the crystal lattice.
The melting characteristics and solubility of organic compounds are greatly influenced by molecular symmetry.
When compared to molecules of same structure but lesser symmetry, symmetrical molecules in crystalline form have greater melting temperatures and lower solubilities.
Because the branching interferes with proper crystal packing, branched-chain hydrocarbons have lower melting temperatures than linear hydrocarbons. Because symmetrical molecules fit together easily within the crystal, the melting point of a branching molecule with significant symmetry is often relatively high.

Note:
Within a series, melting points tend to rise as molecular mass rises. The melting temperatures of many highly symmetrical compounds are exceptionally high. When compared to molecules of same structure but lesser symmetry, symmetrical molecules in crystalline form have greater melting temperatures and lower solubilities.