Which of the following is the weakest type of intermolecular force between molecules?

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

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that intermolecular forces are the forces of attraction between molecules, and their strength varies depending on the type of interaction.
2. Recognize the four types of intermolecular forces listed: London dispersion forces, hydrogen bonding, dipole-dipole interactions, and ion-dipole interactions.
3. Recall that ion-dipole interactions occur between ions and polar molecules and are generally the strongest among these forces.
4. Know that hydrogen bonding is a special, strong type of dipole-dipole interaction involving hydrogen bonded to highly electronegative atoms like N, O, or F.
5. Understand that London dispersion forces are caused by temporary fluctuations in electron distribution in molecules, making them the weakest intermolecular force listed.