Which statement best describes the relative strength of intermolecular forces compared to intramolecular forces?

• A. Intermolecular forces are generally much weaker than intramolecular forces.
• B. Intermolecular forces are generally much stronger than intramolecular forces.
• C. Intermolecular forces only exist in ionic compounds, while intramolecular forces exist in covalent compounds.
• D. Intermolecular forces and intramolecular forces have approximately the same strength.

Answer: (A)

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 of attraction or repulsion between molecules, such as hydrogen bonding, dipole-dipole interactions, and London dispersion forces.
3. Step 3: Compare the typical strength of these forces. Intramolecular forces involve the sharing or transfer of electrons and are generally much stronger because they hold the atoms tightly together within molecules.
4. Step 4: Note that intermolecular forces are weaker because they arise from temporary or permanent dipoles between molecules, which require less energy to overcome compared to breaking covalent or ionic bonds.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct statement is that intermolecular forces are generally much weaker than intramolecular forces.