Which of the following factors most directly influence the bond length between two atoms in a molecule?

• A. The boiling point of the substance
• B. The color of the compound
• C. The molar mass of the molecule
• D. The atomic radii of the bonded atoms

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that bond length is the average distance between the nuclei of two bonded atoms in a molecule.
2. Recognize that bond length depends primarily on the sizes of the atoms involved, which is related to their atomic radii.
3. Recall that larger atomic radii mean the nuclei are farther apart, resulting in longer bond lengths, while smaller atomic radii lead to shorter bond lengths.
4. Note that properties like boiling point, color, and molar mass do not directly affect the distance between bonded atoms, although they may be influenced by other molecular characteristics.
5. Conclude that the atomic radii of the bonded atoms most directly influence the bond length between them.