The molecular structure of a compound significantly influences its solubility, melting points (mp), and boiling points (bp). Stronger intermolecular forces result in higher melting and boiling points due to the increased energy required to separate molecules. Additionally, the size of a compound affects these thermal properties, as more bonds lead to greater intermolecular forces. The principle of "like dissolves like" explains solubility, where compounds with similar intermolecular forces, such as ethanol and water with O-H bonds, exhibit high solubility in one another.
PREREQUISITESChemistry students, educators, and researchers interested in understanding the relationship between molecular structure and physical properties such as solubility, melting points, and boiling points.