What are the physical properties of alcohols and how do they vary with increasing molecular size?

The physical properties of alcohols vary with increasing molecular size.

Alcohols are a group of organic compounds that contain a hydroxyl (-OH) group attached to a carbon atom. The physical properties of alcohols are determined by their molecular size, shape, and polarity. As the molecular size of alcohols increases, their boiling points, melting points, and viscosity also increase. This is because larger molecules have more intermolecular forces of attraction, which require more energy to overcome.

The boiling point of alcohols increases with increasing molecular size due to the increase in intermolecular forces of attraction. The larger the molecule, the more energy is required to break the bonds between the molecules and convert the liquid to a gas. Similarly, the melting point of alcohols also increases with increasing molecular size due to the increase in intermolecular forces of attraction. Larger molecules have more points of contact between molecules, leading to stronger intermolecular forces.

The viscosity of alcohols also increases with increasing molecular size. Viscosity is a measure of a liquid's resistance to flow. Larger molecules have more complex shapes and more points of contact between molecules, leading to stronger intermolecular forces and higher viscosity.

In conclusion, the physical properties of alcohols vary with increasing molecular size. Larger molecules have higher boiling points, melting points, and viscosity due to the increase in intermolecular forces of attraction.