Which physical property is most indicative of strong intermolecular forces in a substance?

• A. Low melting point
• B. High vapor pressure
• C. Low viscosity
• D. High boiling point

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that intermolecular forces (IMFs) are the forces of attraction between molecules, which affect many physical properties of substances.
2. Recognize that strong intermolecular forces cause molecules to stick together more tightly, requiring more energy to separate them.
3. Recall that a high boiling point indicates strong IMFs because more heat energy is needed to convert the liquid into a gas, overcoming these forces.
4. Compare other properties: a low melting point, high vapor pressure, and low viscosity generally indicate weaker intermolecular forces.
5. Conclude that among the options, a high boiling point is the most indicative physical property of strong intermolecular forces.