Here's why:
* Hydrogen Bonding: Water molecules form strong hydrogen bonds with each other. These bonds require a lot of energy to break, leading to a higher boiling point.
* Molecular Size and Mass: While alcohol molecules are larger and heavier than water molecules, they don't form as strong hydrogen bonds. This results in a lower boiling point for alcohol.
Here's a quick comparison:
* Water: Boiling point = 100°C (212°F)
* Ethanol (the most common alcohol): Boiling point = 78.37°C (173°F)
In short, the strength of the hydrogen bonds between molecules is the primary factor determining the boiling point.