Multiple Choice
Which is the predominant intermolecular force present in NaCl(aq)?
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13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Intermolecular Forces
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Which statement best explains the cause of surface tension in liquids composed of polar molecules?
A
Surface tension arises because polar molecules attract each other through intermolecular forces.
B
Surface tension is due to the formation of ionic bonds between polar molecules.
C
Surface tension results from the evaporation of polar molecules at the surface.
D
Surface tension is caused by polar molecules repelling each other at the surface.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that surface tension is a property of liquids that causes the surface to behave like a stretched elastic membrane.
Recognize that surface tension arises from the cohesive forces between molecules at the surface of a liquid, which are stronger than those experienced by molecules in the bulk.
Recall that in liquids composed of polar molecules, these cohesive forces are primarily due to intermolecular attractions such as hydrogen bonding or dipole-dipole interactions.
Note that ionic bonds are not typically formed between polar molecules in a liquid, so surface tension is not caused by ionic bonding.
Conclude that surface tension is best explained by the attraction between polar molecules through intermolecular forces, which pulls surface molecules inward and minimizes surface area.
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