Question

Discuss the following property with reference to noble gases:

Boiling point

Answer 1

1. Noble gases have very low boiling points compared to other elements with similar molecular masses.
2. Their atoms are monoatomic and held together by very weak van der Waals forces.
3. Boiling points increase down the group (He to Rn) because atomic size and van der Waals forces increase.
4. Larger atoms have stronger van der Waals forces, needing more heat to boil.

Thus, boiling point rises regularly from helium to radon in the noble gas group.