Which type of compound typically exhibits the weakest intermolecular forces?

• A. Polar covalent compounds
• B. Hydrogen-bonded compounds
• C. Nonpolar covalent compounds
• D. Ionic compounds

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that intermolecular forces (IMFs) are the forces of attraction between molecules, which affect properties like boiling and melting points.
2. Recall the main types of intermolecular forces: London dispersion forces (present in all molecules, especially nonpolar), dipole-dipole interactions (in polar molecules), and hydrogen bonding (a strong type of dipole-dipole interaction involving H bonded to N, O, or F).
3. Recognize that ionic compounds have strong electrostatic attractions between ions, which are much stronger than typical intermolecular forces in covalent compounds.
4. Note that hydrogen-bonded compounds have strong intermolecular forces due to hydrogen bonding, and polar covalent compounds have dipole-dipole interactions, which are stronger than London dispersion forces.
5. Conclude that nonpolar covalent compounds, which primarily exhibit London dispersion forces, typically have the weakest intermolecular forces among the options given.