Why are intermolecular forces important in chemistry?

• A. They cause the nucleus of an atom to remain stable.
• B. They explain the arrangement of electrons in atomic orbitals.
• C. They are responsible for the formation of covalent bonds within molecules.
• D. They determine the physical properties of substances, such as boiling and melting points.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that intermolecular forces (IMFs) are the forces of attraction or repulsion between molecules, not within atoms or ions.
2. Recognize that IMFs are different from intramolecular forces, such as covalent bonds, which hold atoms together inside a molecule.
3. Know that IMFs influence how molecules interact with each other, affecting properties like boiling point, melting point, vapor pressure, and solubility.
4. Realize that stronger intermolecular forces require more energy to overcome, leading to higher boiling and melting points for substances with strong IMFs.
5. Conclude that the importance of intermolecular forces in chemistry lies in their role in determining the physical properties of substances, which is crucial for understanding material behavior and chemical processes.