Which of the following intermolecular forces is generally considered the weakest?

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

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that intermolecular forces are the forces of attraction between molecules, and their strength varies depending on the type of interaction.
2. Identify the types of intermolecular forces listed: Ion-dipole interactions, Hydrogen bonding, Dipole-dipole interactions, and London dispersion forces.
3. Recall the general order of strength for these forces: Ion-dipole interactions are usually the strongest, followed by hydrogen bonding, then dipole-dipole interactions, and finally London dispersion forces as the weakest.
4. Recognize that London dispersion forces arise from temporary fluctuations in electron distribution, creating instantaneous dipoles even in nonpolar molecules, which makes them generally weaker than the other forces that involve permanent dipoles or ions.
5. Conclude that among the given options, London dispersion forces are generally considered the weakest intermolecular force.