Why propane has a higher boiling point than helium?

Answer 1

Propane has a higher boiling point than helium due to its molecular structure and intermolecular forces. Propane is a larger, heavier molecule with substantial van der Waals forces that arise from its larger electron cloud and polarizability, requiring more energy to break these interactions. In contrast, helium is a noble gas with a simple atomic structure, exhibiting minimal intermolecular forces, which results in a much lower boiling point. Thus, the differences in molecular complexity and intermolecular forces contribute to propane's higher boiling point compared to helium.