Generally the melting points of isomeric alkanes decreases with branching but among isomeric pentanes, neopentane with two branches has the highest melting point. Why is it so ? Explain.

Generally the melting points of isomeric alkanes decreases with branch

1.	Generally the melting points of isomeric alkanes decreases with branching but among isomeric pentanes, neopentane with two branches has the highest melting point. Why is it so ? Explain.
Answer» SOLUTION :The reason being that neopentane is highly SYMMETRICAL . As a result, it fits CLOSELY in the LATTICE thereby INCREASING the forces of attraction and hence the melting point.