Question

Why is the melting point of `CO_2` higher than `CH_3OH`? Wouldn't the melting point of methanol be greater because of the hydrogen bond?

Answer 1

Carbon dioxide sublimes at `-78.5` `""^@C`......

Explanation:

The normal melting point of methanol is `-97.6` `""^@C`.

But here, clearly, we compare apples and oranges, by comparing a melting point, a transition from solid to liquid, to a sublimation point, a transition from solid to gas. On the other hand, the normal boiling point of methanol `+64.7` `""^@C`, and this indicates some considerable degree of intermolecular interaction.

The GREATER involatility of methanol may be attributed to intermolecular hydrogen bonding, which is a potent intermolecular force. The hydrogen bond may be maintained upon melting.