Humber Admissions Practice Test

What type of forces exist between atoms or molecules of the same kind?

1. Dispersion forces

2. Dipole-dipole forces

3. Intramolecular forces

4. Metallic bonding

The correct answer is: Intramolecular forces

The correct answer pertains to the forces that exist within the same type of atoms or molecules. Intramolecular forces specifically refer to the forces that hold atoms together within a molecule. These include covalent bonds, ionic bonds, and metallic bonds, which are key in determining the molecular structure and stability. In contrast, dispersion forces and dipole-dipole forces are types of intermolecular forces, which occur between different molecules rather than within a single molecule. Dispersion forces arise from temporary fluctuations in electron density that create temporary dipoles, while dipole-dipole forces occur between molecules that have permanent dipoles due to differences in electronegativity. Metallic bonding, meanwhile, specifically describes the attractive force between metal atoms and the delocalized electrons surrounding them, rather than a general force like those seen in intramolecular interactions. Understanding intramolecular forces is essential because they provide insight into how atoms bond to form molecules, ultimately influencing the properties of the substance formed.