Abstracto
- The coefficient of cubic expansion of liquids (α) correlates inversely with the corresponding value of enthalpy of vaporisation. The theoretical interpretation is based on the molecular view of liquids as modified solids made of molecules packed in a way that a few neighbouring molecules have been removed. The general equation for the coefficient of cubic expansion of solids was modified to describe the case of liquids regarded as soft solids. The empirical equation α -0.087/ΔHvap was obtained for long-chain liquids of low polarity such as biodiesel materials, when the enthalpy value is given in kJ/mol.