The Question is from neet-chemistry principles-related-to-practical-chemistry , and it was created by the author P SRAVAN KUMAR

Question

A novel detergent is synthesized with a branched alkyl chain.  Compared to a linear-chain detergent with the same number of carbon atoms, the branched detergent will likely exhibit:

P SRAVAN KUMAR · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: A
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
	**Primary Concept**: Detergent properties and structure
	**Related Topics**: Micelle formation, solubility, intermolecular forces
	**Prerequisites**: Basic organic chemistry, hydrophobic and hydrophilic interactions
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
	Branched alkyl chain detergent vs. linear alkyl chain detergent with the same number of carbon atoms.
**Method & Steps**:
	1. **Consider the effect of branching on packing**: Branching in the alkyl chain disrupts the regular packing of the detergent molecules.
		Reasoning: Linear chains can pack closely together, maximizing van der Waals forces.
	2. **Relate packing to solubility**:  Disrupted packing reduces the strength of intermolecular forces between the detergent molecules.
		Working:  Weaker intermolecular forces between detergent molecules make it easier for water molecules to surround and solvate individual detergent molecules.
		Key Point:  The hydrophobic effect (the tendency of nonpolar molecules to aggregate in water) is reduced in branched detergents.
	3. **Relate packing to other properties**:  Disrupted packing also affects other properties like CMC, foaming capacity, and melting point.
		Result:  Branching increases solubility, generally increases CMC, may decrease foaming capacity, and decreases melting point.
		Verification: This aligns with the general principles of detergent chemistry.
## OPTION ANALYSIS
[A] ✓: Increased solubility in water: Branching disrupts packing, weakening intermolecular forces between detergent molecules and allowing for better interaction with water molecules.
[B] :x: A lower critical micelle concentration (CMC):  Branching generally *increases* CMC because the reduced hydrophobic effect makes micelle formation less favorable.
[C] :x: Greater foaming capacity:  Foaming capacity is complex and can be affected by several factors. However, branching may *decrease* foaming because the looser packing can destabilize foams.
[D] :x: A higher melting point: Branching *decreases* melting point. The closer packing of linear molecules leads to stronger intermolecular forces and a higher melting point.
## LEARNING AIDS
	**Common Mistakes**:
		1. Assuming branching always has the same effect on all properties: The effect of branching depends on the specific property being considered.
		2. Confusing solubility with CMC: Solubility refers to how well individual detergent molecules dissolve in water, while CMC refers to the concentration at which micelles begin to form.
	**Quick Tips**:
		1. Visualize the packing of linear vs. branched molecules: Imagine trying to stack straight sticks versus branched twigs.
		2. Remember the relationship between packing and intermolecular forces: Closer packing leads to stronger intermolecular forces.

P SRAVAN KUMAR · Answer

The correct Option is "increased solubility in water"

P SRAVAN KUMAR · Answer

a lower critical micelle concentration (CMC)

P SRAVAN KUMAR · Answer

greater foaming capacity

P SRAVAN KUMAR · Answer

a higher melting point

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