Question

What intermolecular forces are likely to lead to the lowest boiling point?

1) hydrogen bonding
2) dispersion forces
3) dipole-dipole forces
4) ionic forces

Answer 1

2. Dispersion forces are likely to lead to the lowest boiling point.

Step-by-step explanation:

The intermolecular force that is likely to lead to the lowest boiling point is 2. dispersion forces.

In terms of strength, the intermolecular forces can be ranked from weakest to strongest as follows: dispersion forces < dipole-dipole interactions < hydrogen bonding < ionic bonding.

Dispersion forces are the weakest intermolecular forces and are exhibited by all atoms and molecules, regardless of polarity. They occur when temporary dipoles are induced in atoms or molecules due to fluctuating electron distributions. Dispersion forces tend to be stronger for molecules with larger electron clouds, such as larger atoms or molecules.