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Ch.11 - Liquids & Phase Changes
Chapter 11, Problem 23b

Predict which substance in each pair has the highest viscosity. (b) Pentane or neopentane

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Viscosity

Viscosity is a measure of a fluid's resistance to flow. It reflects how thick or sticky a liquid is, with higher viscosity indicating a greater resistance to flow. Factors influencing viscosity include temperature, molecular size, and intermolecular forces. Understanding viscosity is crucial for predicting how substances behave in different conditions.
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Molecular Structure

The molecular structure of a substance, including its shape and branching, significantly affects its physical properties, including viscosity. For example, branched molecules like neopentane tend to have lower viscosity compared to their straight-chain counterparts due to reduced surface area and weaker intermolecular interactions. Analyzing molecular structure helps in predicting the behavior of substances.
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Intermolecular Forces

Intermolecular forces are the attractive forces between molecules that influence various physical properties, including viscosity. Stronger intermolecular forces, such as hydrogen bonding or dipole-dipole interactions, typically lead to higher viscosity. Understanding these forces is essential for comparing substances and predicting their flow behavior under different conditions.
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