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Which intermolecular force(s) do the following pairs of molecules experience?

1. Ethanol and Hexane

A. London dispersion
B. Hydrogen bonding
C. Ion-induced dipole
D. Dipole-dipole

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Ethanol and hexane experience London dispersion forces. Additionally, ethanol also exhibits hydrogen bonding and dipole-dipole interactions, while hexane, being nonpolar, only experiences London dispersion forces.

Step-by-step explanation:

The intermolecular forces experienced by ethanol and hexane when mixed include:

  • London dispersion forces: Both ethanol and hexane exhibit this type of intermolecular force, which is present in all molecular substances. It is weaker in hexane but strengthened in larger molecules due to increased polarizability.
  • Hydrogen bonding: Ethanol can participate in hydrogen bonding due to its OH group, which significantly affects its intermolecular interactions.
  • Dipole-dipole interactions: Ethanol, being a polar molecule, will have dipole-dipole interactions in addition to London dispersion forces and hydrogen bonding.

While hexane will only exhibit London dispersion forces because of its nonpolar nature, ethanol will display all three mentioned forces: London dispersion forces, hydrogen bonding, and dipole-dipole interactions due to its polar nature and the presence of a hydroxyl group.

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User Pedro Manfredi
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