Which type of intermolecular force is the strongest in a sample of krypton (Kr)?

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

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the nature of the substance: Krypton (Kr) is a noble gas and exists as individual atoms, not molecules, and is nonpolar.
2. Recall the types of intermolecular forces: Hydrogen bonding occurs between molecules with H bonded to N, O, or F; ion-dipole interactions occur between ions and polar molecules; dipole-dipole interactions occur between polar molecules; London dispersion forces occur in all molecules and atoms but are the only forces present in nonpolar atoms or molecules.
3. Since krypton atoms are nonpolar and monatomic, they do not have permanent dipoles or hydrogen bonding capabilities, nor do they form ions in the sample.
4. Therefore, the strongest intermolecular force present in krypton is London dispersion forces, which arise from temporary fluctuations in electron distribution creating instantaneous dipoles.
5. Conclude that London dispersion forces are the dominant and strongest intermolecular force in a sample of krypton.