Intermolecular Forces

Question 7 • *26-27 CFISD TX-Chemistry A CR

Substances X and Y are both nonpolar. If the volatility of X is higher than that of Y, what is the best explanation?

Answer

X’s molecules experience stronger dipole-dipole forces than Y’s molecules.

Y’s molecules experience stronger dipole-dipole forces than X’s molecules.

X’s molecules experience stronger London dispersion forces than Y’s molecules.

Y’s molecules experience stronger London dispersion forces than X’s molecules.

Explanation

Volatility increases as intermolecular forces become weaker, because molecules can escape into the gas phase more easily. Since X is more volatile than Y, Y must have stronger intermolecular forces. Both substances are nonpolar, so their relevant intermolecular forces are London dispersion forces; therefore, Y’s molecules experience stronger London dispersion forces than X’s.

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