Question

Two compounds A and B were being tested for their boiling points. It was observed that A started boiling after B, when both were subjected to same conditions. If the compound B is acetone, which of the following can be compound A?

(a) n-Butane

(b) Methoxyethane

(c) Propanal

(d) Propanol

This question was addressed to me during an interview for a job.

My doubt is from Aldehydes and Ketones Physical Properties in portion Aldehydes, Ketones and Carboxylic Acids of Chemistry – Class 12

Answer 1

The correct answer is (d) Propanol

The best I can explain: It can be inferred that B has a higher boiling point than A. Since hydrocarbons, ethers and aldehydes have lower boiling points than ketones of similar molecular masses, none of them can be compound A. Also, alcohols have a higher boiling point than similar ketones hence, the compound A is propanol.