Final answer:
To collect the distillate of the compound with the weakest intermolecular forces, understand that this compound will have the lowest boiling point and will vaporize first in distillation. The strategy involves evaluating intermolecular forces, molar masses, and surface area. Use proper distillation setup to collect the distillate over the correct volume.
Step-by-step explanation:
When deciding over what volume to collect the distillate of a compound with the weakest intermolecular forces, it is important to understand the behavior of intermolecular forces in relation to boiling points. Compounds with weaker intermolecular forces typically have lower boiling points, meaning they will turn into gas at lower temperatures. Thus, collecting distillate involves understanding that the substance with the weakest forces will vaporize first during distillation.
Strategy for identifying the compound with the weakest intermolecular forces includes considering the type and strength of these forces, molar masses, and surface area of the compounds. The substance with the lowest molar mass, least surface area, and weakest intermolecular forces is the one that will have the lowest boiling point and will be collected over the smallest volume as distillate in a distillation process.
When performing the distillation, ensure that the apparatus is properly set up so that when the compound with the weakest intermolecular forces vaporizes, the distillate is correctly collected over the allowed volume, such as in a receiving flask.