Which of the following intermolecular forces is generally considered the weakest?

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

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand that intermolecular forces are the forces of attraction or repulsion between molecules, and they vary in strength depending on the type of interaction.
2. Step 2: Recognize the main types of intermolecular forces listed: dipole-dipole interactions, hydrogen bonding, ion-dipole forces, and London dispersion forces.
3. Step 3: Recall that ion-dipole forces occur between ions and polar molecules and are generally quite strong due to the full charge on the ion.
4. Step 4: Know that hydrogen bonding is a special, strong type of dipole-dipole interaction that occurs when hydrogen is bonded to highly electronegative atoms like N, O, or F.
5. Step 5: Understand that London dispersion forces arise from temporary fluctuations in electron distribution in molecules, causing temporary dipoles; these are generally the weakest intermolecular forces because they are temporary and occur even in nonpolar molecules.