Molecular structure significantly influences a compound's solubility, melting point (mp), and boiling point (bp). Stronger intermolecular forces lead to higher melting and boiling points, as more energy is required to separate molecules during phase changes. Additionally, the size of a compound affects these points, with more bonds resulting in greater intermolecular forces. Solubility follows the principle of "like dissolves like," meaning compounds with similar intermolecular forces will dissolve in each other; for example, ethanol is highly soluble in water due to both containing O-H bonds. Understanding these relationships is crucial for predicting the behavior of compounds in various environments.
