Which type of intermolecular force is most significant in a molecule of H2O due to its polarity?

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

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the types of intermolecular forces. The main types include London dispersion forces, dipole-dipole interactions, hydrogen bonding, and ionic bonding.
2. Step 2: Recognize that H2O (water) is a polar molecule because of the difference in electronegativity between hydrogen and oxygen and its bent molecular shape, which creates a permanent dipole moment.
3. Step 3: Identify that hydrogen bonding is a special type of dipole-dipole interaction that occurs when hydrogen is directly bonded to highly electronegative atoms like oxygen, nitrogen, or fluorine.
4. Step 4: Since water has hydrogen atoms bonded to oxygen, it can form hydrogen bonds, which are stronger than regular dipole-dipole interactions and London dispersion forces.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the most significant intermolecular force in H2O due to its polarity is hydrogen bonding.