Conformation of n-alkane molecules in the melt and in cyclohexane solution studied by small-angle neutron scattering

Small-angle neutron scattering experiments on hexadecane and hexatriacontane molecules in various states have been performed. The molecules in the melt and in cyclohexane solution show the same scattering behavior. The measured radii of gyration are in good agreement with those calculated by Flory on the basis of the rotational isomeric state theory. There is no evidence for any intermolecular interaction that favors elongated chain conformations. One must rather come to the conclusion that n-alkane molecules assume their unperturbed dimensions in the molten state.