Which of the following is considered the weakest type of intermolecular force?

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

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that intermolecular forces are the forces of attraction between molecules, which affect properties like boiling point and solubility.
2. Identify the types of intermolecular forces listed: dipole-dipole interactions, hydrogen bonding, ion-dipole interactions, and London dispersion forces.
3. Recall that ion-dipole interactions occur between ions and polar molecules and are generally quite strong.
4. Recognize that hydrogen bonding is a special, strong type of dipole-dipole interaction involving hydrogen bonded to highly electronegative atoms (N, O, or F).
5. Know that London dispersion forces are caused by temporary fluctuations in electron distribution, present in all molecules, and are the weakest among the listed intermolecular forces.