Final answer:
The non-covalent interactions in order of strength are: dispersion forces, dipole-dipole interactions, hydrogen bonding, and ion-ion interactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The non-covalent interactions in order of strength are:
- Dispersion forces: Dispersion forces, also known as London dispersion forces, are the weakest non-covalent interactions. They arise between all molecules and atoms, and they result from the temporary fluctuations in electron distribution that create instantaneous dipoles. These forces increase with increasing number of electrons in the molecule or atom.
- Dipole-dipole interactions: Dipole-dipole interactions occur between polar molecules with permanent dipoles. They are stronger than dispersion forces because the positive end of one molecule attracts the negative end of another molecule. This creates a stronger electrostatic interaction.
- Hydrogen bonding: Hydrogen bonding is the strongest non-covalent interaction. It occurs when a hydrogen atom is bonded to a highly electronegative atom (such as oxygen, nitrogen, or fluorine) and it interacts with another electronegative atom. These interactions are responsible for many important biological processes and the unique properties of water.
- Ion-ion interactions: Ion-ion interactions, also known as ionic bonding, are even stronger than hydrogen bonding. They occur between oppositely charged ions, such as a cation and an anion. These interactions play a vital role in the formation and stability of ionic compounds.