Which of the following intermolecular forces is the strongest?

• A. Ion-Dipole interaction
• B. London Dispersion forces
• C. Dipole-dipole
• D. Hydrogen bonding

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the types of intermolecular forces: Intermolecular forces are forces that occur between molecules, affecting their physical properties. The main types include London Dispersion forces, Dipole-dipole interactions, Hydrogen bonding, and Ion-Dipole interactions.
2. London Dispersion forces: These are the weakest intermolecular forces and occur due to temporary fluctuations in electron distribution within atoms or molecules, leading to temporary dipoles.
3. Dipole-dipole interactions: These occur between polar molecules where the positive end of one molecule is attracted to the negative end of another. They are stronger than London Dispersion forces but weaker than Hydrogen bonding and Ion-Dipole interactions.
4. Hydrogen bonding: This is a special type of dipole-dipole interaction that occurs when hydrogen is bonded to highly electronegative atoms like nitrogen, oxygen, or fluorine. It is stronger than regular dipole-dipole interactions.
5. Ion-Dipole interactions: These occur between an ion and a polar molecule. They are the strongest among the listed intermolecular forces because the charge of the ion interacts strongly with the dipole of the polar molecule.