Final answer:
The intermolecular force that exists predominantly in (H₂O) molecules is the hydrogen bond. Therefore, the correct option is C.
Step-by-step explanation:
The intermolecular force that exists predominantly in (H₂O) molecules is the hydrogen bond.
Hydrogen bonding is a type of intermolecular force that occurs when a hydrogen atom is bonded to a highly electronegative atom such as oxygen (O), nitrogen (N), or fluorine (F). In the case of water (H₂O), the oxygen atom acts as the hydrogen bond acceptor, while the hydrogen atoms act as the hydrogen bond donors. This results in strong attractions between adjacent water molecules.
The other options, van der Waal's force and ion-dipole force, are also intermolecular forces but they do not occur predominantly in water molecules. Van der Waal's forces, also known as London Dispersion forces, are present in all molecules and arise from temporary fluctuations in electron distribution. Ion-dipole forces, on the other hand, occur between ions and polar molecules.