QuestionWhich weak interaction needs the least energy to break: A. hydrogen bonds, B. ionic bonds, C. van der Waals, D. disulfide?
Studdy Solution
STEP 1
Assumptions1. We are asked to identify the weakest interaction among the given options. . The weaker the interaction, the less energy it requires to disrupt.
STEP 2
We need to understand the relative strengths of the given interactions.1. Hydrogen bonds are relatively strong intermolecular forces, but they are weaker than covalent bonds such as disulfide bonds.
2. Ionic bonds are generally stronger than hydrogen bonds because they involve the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions.
. Van der Waals interactions are the weakest of the intermolecular forces. They arise from temporary fluctuations in electron distribution within molecules, leading to temporary regions of positive and negative charge that attract each other.
4. Disulfide bonds are covalent bonds, and are therefore much stronger than any of the intermolecular forces listed.
STEP 3
Based on the relative strengths of these interactions, we can conclude that van der Waals interactions would require the least amount of energy to disrupt.
The answer is C. van der Waals interactions.
Was this helpful?
