Determine the kinds of intermolecular forces that are present in each element or compound. d. I₂

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Identify the type of molecule. In this case, I₂ is a nonpolar molecule because it consists of two identical atoms, iodine, bonded together.
2. Step 2: Determine the types of intermolecular forces that can occur in nonpolar molecules. Nonpolar molecules can only have London dispersion forces (also known as van der Waals forces).
3. Step 3: Apply this knowledge to the molecule in question. Since I₂ is a nonpolar molecule, it can only have London dispersion forces.
4. Step 4: Consider the size of the molecule. Larger molecules have more electrons and thus stronger London dispersion forces. Iodine is a relatively large atom, so I₂ will have relatively strong London dispersion forces.
5. Step 5: Summarize the types of intermolecular forces present in I₂. In this case, the only type of intermolecular force present in I₂ is London dispersion forces.

Key Concepts

Intermolecular Forces

Intermolecular forces are the attractive forces between molecules that influence physical properties such as boiling and melting points. These forces include hydrogen bonding, dipole-dipole interactions, and London dispersion forces. Understanding these forces is crucial for predicting the behavior of substances in different states of matter.

London Dispersion Forces

London dispersion forces are a type of van der Waals force that arise from temporary fluctuations in electron density within molecules, leading to temporary dipoles. These forces are present in all molecules, but they are the only type of intermolecular force in nonpolar substances, such as iodine (I2). The strength of these forces increases with the size and polarizability of the molecules.

Molecular Polarity

Molecular polarity refers to the distribution of electrical charge over the atoms in a molecule. Polar molecules have a significant difference in electronegativity between bonded atoms, leading to a dipole moment. In contrast, nonpolar molecules, like I2, have an even distribution of charge, resulting in no permanent dipole, which affects the type and strength of intermolecular forces present.