Which of the following statements correctly defines intermolecular forces?

• A. Intermolecular forces are the forces that result from the sharing of electron pairs between atoms.
• B. Intermolecular forces are the forces that occur within the nucleus of an atom.
• C. Intermolecular forces are the forces that hold atoms together within a molecule.
• D. Intermolecular forces are the forces of attraction between molecules.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the term 'intermolecular forces'. These are forces of attraction or repulsion that act between neighboring particles (atoms, molecules, or ions).
2. Differentiate between intermolecular forces and intramolecular forces. Intramolecular forces are the forces that hold atoms together within a molecule, such as covalent bonds, whereas intermolecular forces occur between molecules.
3. Consider the types of intermolecular forces, which include dipole-dipole interactions, hydrogen bonding, and London dispersion forces. These forces are generally weaker than intramolecular forces.
4. Evaluate the given statements: The first statement describes covalent bonding, which is an intramolecular force. The second statement refers to nuclear forces, which are not intermolecular. The third statement again describes intramolecular forces.
5. Conclude that the correct definition of intermolecular forces is the forces of attraction between molecules, as stated in the fourth option.