Question

Which of the forces of molecular attraction is the weakest?

Answer 1

Explanation:

• The weak intermolecular forces which can arise either between nucleus and electrons or between electron-electron are known as dispersion forces. These forces are also known as London dispersion forces and these are temporary in nature.

• Dipole-dipole interactions are defined as the interactions that occur when partial positive charge on an atom is attracted by partial negative charge on another atom.

For example, hydrocarbons show dispersion forces due to difference in the electronegativity of its combining atoms.

• When a polar molecules produces a dipole on a non-polar molecule through distribution of electrons then it is known as dipole-induced forces.

• Hydrogen bonding is defined as a bonding which exists between a hydrogen atom and an electronegative atom like O, N and F.

• The electrostatic force of attraction which exists between an ion and a neutral molecule is known as ion-dipole interaction.

Order of some forces in the order of increasing strength is as follows.

 Dispersion forces < dipole-induced dipole < dipole-dipole < hydrogen bonding < ion-dipole  

Thus, we can conclude that dispersion forces of molecular attraction is the weakest.

Answer 2

The weakest intermolecular force is a Dispersion force.