Which of the following has the highest enthalpy of combustion?

Options

A. `n`-Pentane
B. isopentane
C. Neopentane
D. All have equal values

Answer

C

Explanation

Branched chain hydrocarbon burn more smoothly because when they break down, they form more stables, less reactive `3^(@)` radicals. These radicals react more slowly and smoothly with `O_(2)` than the `1^(@) or 2^(@)` radicals which form during the breakdown of straight chain hydrocarbon.