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Question 200 of 785 in Organic Chemistry

The origin of crude oil

2 marks · Normal

Give two differences between small and large hydrocarbon molecules found in crude oil.

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Small hydrocarbons have lower boiling points and are more volatile; large hydrocarbons have higher boiling points and are less volatile (more viscous, flow less easily, darker, burn less easily).

Also accept: Small: runnier, lighter colour, burn more easily. Large: more viscous, darker, burn less easily.

Common mistakes: Mixing up properties

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Marking points

B1 · 1 mark · States a difference in boiling point or volatility or viscosity.

B2 · 1 mark · Describes a second property or difference (such as colour, ease of burning, flow).

Worked solution

Small hydrocarbons have lower boiling points and are more volatile. Large hydrocarbons have higher boiling points and are less volatile.

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