Which intermolecular forces are present in a sample of H2O (water)?

• 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 in 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 bent shape and the difference in electronegativity between hydrogen and oxygen, which means dipole-dipole interactions are present.
3. Note that water molecules have hydrogen atoms directly bonded to a highly electronegative atom (oxygen), which allows for hydrogen bonding, a special and stronger type of dipole-dipole interaction.
4. Remember that all molecules, including water, exhibit London dispersion forces due to temporary fluctuations in electron density, even though these are the weakest forces present.
5. Conclude that water exhibits all three intermolecular forces: hydrogen bonding, dipole-dipole interactions, and London dispersion forces.