Formaldehyde is a colorless gas but when dissolved in water can be used in embalming fluids. Which intermolecular force(s) is(are) present among formaldehyde molecules shown below?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Formaldehyde has a polar covalent bond between carbon and oxygen atoms, which creates a permanent dipole. This dipole allows dipole-dipole interactions to occur between formaldehyde molecules. Additionally, formaldehyde is a nonpolar molecule, meaning it experiences London dispersion forces as well. Therefore, both dipole-dipole interactions and London dispersion forces are present among formaldehyde molecules.

Formaldehyde Is a Colorless Gas but When Dissolved in Water