Question 1
Question detail
How do London dispersion forces compare to other intermolecular forces?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Bonding
Question
- A. They are the strongest type of intermolecular force.
- B. They are weaker than dipole-dipole and hydrogen bonding forces.
- C. They are stronger than ionic bonds.
- D. They are the only forces present in ionic compounds.
Answer
They are weaker than dipole-dipole and hydrogen bonding forces.
Explanation
London dispersion forces are generally the weakest type of intermolecular force compared to dipole-dipole interactions and hydrogen bonds, which are stronger due to the presence of permanent dipoles.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding London Dispersion Forces
Students often confuse London dispersion forces with stronger intermolecular forces like hydrogen bonds, thinking they have similar strengths.
London dispersion forces are weak intermolecular forces that arise from temporary dipoles in molecules. To clarify, remember that these forces increase with molecular size and surface area. For example, larger molecules have more electrons, leading to stronger temporary dipoles and thus stronger London dispersion forces. Always compare them to other forces to understand their relative weakness.
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