Which type of intermolecular force is primarily responsible for the high viscosity observed in certain liquids?

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

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that viscosity is a measure of a liquid's resistance to flow, which depends on the strength of intermolecular forces between its molecules.
2. Recall the main types of intermolecular forces: London dispersion forces (weakest), dipole-dipole interactions (moderate strength), and hydrogen bonding (strongest among these).
3. Recognize that hydrogen bonding occurs when hydrogen is directly bonded to highly electronegative atoms like oxygen, nitrogen, or fluorine, creating strong attractions between molecules.
4. Compare the strength of hydrogen bonding to dipole-dipole and London dispersion forces, noting that stronger intermolecular forces lead to higher viscosity because molecules stick together more tightly.
5. Conclude that the high viscosity in certain liquids is primarily due to hydrogen bonding, as it significantly increases intermolecular attraction and thus resistance to flow.