Water, H₂O, and Methane, CH₄, Have About the Same Mass

question 47

Multiple Choice

Water, H₂O, and methane, CH₄, have about the same mass and differ by only one type of atom. Why is the boiling point of water so much higher than that of methane?

• A)The water molecule is less symmetrical than is the methane molecule.
• B)The oxygen of a water molecule has two lone pairs of electrons.
• C)The electronegativity difference between oxygen and hydrogen is greater than the electronegativity difference between carbon and hydrogen.
• D)all of the above

---

Definitions:

Heuristic Approach

A problem-solving strategy that employs a practical method, not guaranteed to be optimal, perfect, or rational, but sufficient for reaching an immediate goal.

Analytic Approach

A method of problem-solving by breaking a complex topic or substance into smaller parts to gain a better understanding of it.

Naive Physics

Naive physics is the common-sense understanding of the physical world that people develop based on their everyday experiences, often without formal education in physics.

Object Persistence

The property of an object to continue existing even when it is not being perceived or observed.