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Multiple Choice
Which type of intermolecular force primarily contributes to the high melting and boiling points of metals?
A
London dispersion forces
B
Dipole-dipole interactions
C
Hydrogen bonding
D
Metallic bonding
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that the question asks about the type of intermolecular force responsible for the high melting and boiling points of metals.
Recall that metals consist of a lattice of positive metal ions surrounded by a 'sea' of delocalized electrons, which is a unique bonding type called metallic bonding.
Recognize that London dispersion forces, dipole-dipole interactions, and hydrogen bonding are types of intermolecular forces relevant mostly to molecular substances, not metals.
Identify that metallic bonding involves the electrostatic attraction between the positive metal ions and the delocalized electrons, which is much stronger than typical intermolecular forces.
Conclude that metallic bonding is the primary force contributing to the high melting and boiling points of metals due to the strong attraction holding the metal atoms together.