The following graph shows the boiling points of some 1-chloroalkanes - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 24 - 2022 - Paper 1

The graph illustrates a positive correlation between the molar mass of 1-chloroalkanes and their boiling points. As the molar mass increases, the boiling point also increases.

This trend can be explained by considering the dispersion forces, which are a type of van der Waals force. As the molar mass increases, the number of electrons in the molecule also increases. A greater number of electrons enhances the strength of the dispersion forces between the molecules.

Consequently, stronger intermolecular forces require more energy to overcome and break apart. Therefore, 1-chloroalkanes with higher molar masses exhibit higher boiling points due to the increased strength of these dispersion forces.