Based upon intermolecular forces of attraction, which is the correct order for increasing boiling points among the following three molecules?
N₂, H₂, and NH₃

Question

Based upon intermolecular forces of attraction, which is the correct order for increasing boiling points among the following three molecules? N₂, H₂, and NH₃

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correct order is based on the types of intermolecular forces present in each molecule. N₂ (N2) and H₂ (H2) are nonpolar molecules and thus exhibit London dispersion forces. NH₃ (NH3) can form hydrogen bonds, which are stronger than London dispersion forces. Since hydrogen bonds are stronger than London dispersion forces, NH3 has the highest boiling point. Between N2 and H2, H2 has a lower molecular weight, leading to weaker London dispersion forces and thus a lower boiling point. Therefore, the order from lowest to highest boiling point is H2 < N2 < NH3.

Based Upon Intermolecular Forces of Attraction, Which Is the Correct