In which of the following crystals are the particles held by van der Waal's forces only?
Answer Details
Van der Waal's forces are weak intermolecular forces that exist between molecules. These forces are formed due to the attraction between the temporary dipoles that arise due to the fluctuations in the electron cloud of molecules.
Out of the given options, only iodine is held together by van der Waal's forces only. Iodine exists as a diatomic molecule, and each iodine atom is held together by a covalent bond. However, the molecules are held together in the crystal lattice by weak van der Waal's forces.
Sodium chloride, ice, diamond, and quartz are all held together by strong ionic or covalent bonds, and therefore, van der Waal's forces are not the primary forces holding these crystals together.