Which intermolecular force is present in all condensed phases (liquids and solids)?

• A. Dipole-dipole interactions
• B. Ion-dipole forces
• C. London dispersion forces
• D. Hydrogen bonding

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that intermolecular forces are the forces of attraction between molecules that determine the physical properties of liquids and solids.
2. Recognize the types of intermolecular forces listed: dipole-dipole interactions occur between polar molecules, ion-dipole forces occur between ions and polar molecules, and hydrogen bonding is a special, strong type of dipole-dipole interaction involving H bonded to N, O, or F.
3. Recall that London dispersion forces (also called induced dipole-induced dipole forces) arise due to temporary fluctuations in electron distribution in all molecules, whether polar or nonpolar.
4. Since London dispersion forces result from instantaneous dipoles, they are present in every molecule and atom, making them the only intermolecular force present in all condensed phases (liquids and solids).
5. Conclude that the correct answer is London dispersion forces because they universally exist regardless of molecular polarity or charge.