Heat of hydration is the heat evolved on hydrogenation of a substance.  It is the value of -delta H degrees for the addition of H2 to a multiple bond.  Scientists can measure the differences in the energy of isomers by converting them to a product or products common to all and comparing the heats of hydration.  For alkenes, decreasing heat of hydrogenation increases the stability of the double bonds.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Select an organic molecule by clicking on one of the option buttons.  View the difference in starting structure and the heat of hydrogenation for the various molecules.