Which type(s) of intermolecular forces are present between H_2O molecules?

• A. Only dipole-dipole interactions
• B. Only hydrogen bonding
• C. Hydrogen bonding, dipole-dipole interactions, and London dispersion forces
• D. Only London dispersion forces

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the types of intermolecular forces that can exist between molecules. The main types are London dispersion forces, dipole-dipole interactions, and hydrogen bonding.
2. Recognize that water (H_2O) 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. Understand that because water is polar, dipole-dipole interactions occur between the positive end (hydrogen) of one molecule and the negative end (oxygen) of another molecule.
4. Note that water molecules contain hydrogen atoms bonded directly to a highly electronegative atom (oxygen), which allows for hydrogen bonding, a special and stronger type of dipole-dipole interaction.
5. Remember that all molecules, including water, exhibit London dispersion forces due to temporary fluctuations in electron density, so these forces are also present alongside dipole-dipole and hydrogen bonding.