Which of the following best describes the difference between intermolecular forces and intramolecular forces?

• A. Intramolecular forces are responsible for phase changes, while intermolecular forces hold atoms together in a molecule.
• B. Intermolecular forces are always stronger than intramolecular forces.
• C. Intermolecular forces occur between molecules, while intramolecular forces occur within a molecule.
• D. Intermolecular forces involve ionic bonds, while intramolecular forces involve hydrogen bonds.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definitions of intermolecular and intramolecular forces. Intramolecular forces are the forces that hold atoms together within a molecule, such as covalent or ionic bonds.
2. Step 2: Recognize that intermolecular forces are the forces that occur between separate molecules, influencing properties like boiling and melting points.
3. Step 3: Note that intramolecular forces are generally much stronger than intermolecular forces because they involve the actual chemical bonds within molecules.
4. Step 4: Identify that phase changes (like melting and boiling) are primarily influenced by intermolecular forces, not intramolecular forces.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best description is that intermolecular forces occur between molecules, while intramolecular forces occur within a molecule.