Question detail
What is the primary factor that determines the strength of London dispersion forces between two molecules?
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. The electronegativity of the atoms
- B. The molecular size and shape
- C. The type of bonding present
- D. The temperature of the environment
Answer
The molecular size and shape
Explanation
The strength of London dispersion forces is primarily determined by the size and shape of the molecules, as larger and more elongated molecules can interact more effectively.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding London Forces
Students often confuse the effect of molecular size and surface contact on London dispersion forces, thinking that larger molecules always have stronger forces without considering surface area.
To explain how molecular size and surface contact affect London forces, use the formula that larger surface areas lead to increased contact points, enhancing the strength of London forces. For example, when comparing two molecules, if molecule A has a larger surface area than molecule B, then the London forces in molecule A will be stronger due to more significant surface contact. Therefore, larger and more branched molecules typically exhibit stronger London forces.
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