Question:medium

Which among the following molecules exhibits strong London forces?

Show Hint

For alkanes, remember this straightforward trend:
$$\text{Branching} \propto \frac{1}{\text{Surface Area}} \propto \frac{1}{\text{Strength of London Forces}} \propto \frac{1}{\text{Boiling Point}}$$
More linear chains mean greater surface area contact and stronger intermolecular forces. Hence, the straight-chain $n$-isomer will always win over branched versions.
Updated On: Jun 4, 2026
  • neo-pentane
  • n-pentane
  • isobutane
  • isopentane
Show Solution

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understand London forces.
London forces are weak pulls between non-polar molecules. They get stronger when a molecule is bigger and when it has more surface to touch its neighbours.
Step 2: Compare the sizes first.
Isobutane is $\text{C}_4\text{H}_{10}$, with only 4 carbons. The other three are pentanes, $\text{C}_5\text{H}_{12}$, with 5 carbons. More carbons means more electrons and stronger London forces, so isobutane is the weakest and is ruled out.
Step 3: Now compare the three pentane shapes.
n-pentane, isopentane and neo-pentane all have the same formula but different shapes. Shape decides surface area.
Step 4: Think about straight versus branched.
A straight chain is long and open, so molecules can lie close along each other and touch over a big area. A branched molecule is more like a ball, so it touches less.
Step 5: Rank them.
n-pentane is fully straight, so it has the largest touching area. Isopentane has one branch and neo-pentane is the most branched and ball-like, so it touches the least.
Step 6: Pick the strongest.
The biggest touching area gives the strongest London forces. So n-pentane has the strongest London forces among these. \[ \boxed{\text{n-pentane}} \]
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