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UPSC Civil Services (Mains)

Chemistry optional

  • 2 papers
  • 250 marks each
  • 3 h per paper
  • 5 of 8 questions, Q1 and Q5 compulsory

Paper I covers physical and inorganic chemistry.

UPSC Civil Services (Mains), Chemistry optional · 2024 · Paper I

Q3(b)(i). Surface tension: ethanol or dimethyl ether

Question

Which of the following liquids has greater surface tension: ethanol or dimethyl ether? Explain the answer with reasons.

Answer in brief

Ethanol, because its molecules are held together by O–H···O hydrogen bonds, which dimethyl ether cannot form.

Part of VKC Basic

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The full model answer

As written for the answer booklet: the diagram carries the working, the lines stay short. Read here only; it is not offered as a download.

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Coverssurface tensionhydrogen bondingethanoldimethyl etherintermolecular forces