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Choose the correct statement comparing the two compounds: I = CH3-O-CH3 (dimethyl ether) II = C2H5-OH (ethanol)

1. Boiling point of II is higher than I
2. Boiling point of II is lower than I
3. Compound I forms intramolecular H-bonding
4. Compound II forms intermolecular H-bonding

Correct answer: Boiling point of II is higher than I

Solution

Dimethyl ether and ethanol are constitutional isomers (C2H6O). Ethanol contains an O-H group and can form strong intermolecular hydrogen bonds, while dimethyl ether (no O-H) cannot. Although option 4 (ethanol forms intermolecular H-bonding) is also a true statement, the question asks for the comparison that captures the main consequence: ethanol's intermolecular H-bonding raises its boiling point well above that of dimethyl ether. Hence the boiling point of II is higher than I.

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