Final answer:
The literature melting point of naphthalene is between 80°C to 82°C, and it depends on the strength of London dispersion forces in its molecular structure of C10H8.
Step-by-step explanation:
The literature melting point of naphthalene is known to be between 80°C to 82°C. Melting points are important physical properties that help to characterize substances. In the case of naphthalene, the molecular formula is C10H8, which implies a structure that has a reasonable size and shape allowing for significant molecular interactions, primarily due to London dispersion forces. As a solid is heated, its particles absorb kinetic energy, vibrate more rapidly, and eventually disrupt the organized structure, causing the solid to melt. The specific melting point is dependent on the strength of intermolecular forces present in the solid substance, similar to the way the melting point for sodium chloride is influenced by its strong ionic bonds. For organic molecules like naphthalene, the London dispersion forces dictate the melting point to a large extent.