Which of the following bond types is intermolecular?
Answer Details
An intermolecular bond refers to a bond that occurs between molecules, as opposed to intramolecular bonds that exist within a molecule. Let's analyze the given options:
- Covalent bond: A covalent bond is formed by the sharing of electrons between atoms within a molecule, rather than between different molecules. It is an intramolecular bond.
- Hydrogen bond: A hydrogen bond occurs when a hydrogen atom in one molecule is attracted to an electronegative atom (such as oxygen, nitrogen, or fluorine) in another molecule. It is an intermolecular bond.
- Ionic bond: An ionic bond involves the transfer of electrons from one atom to another, resulting in the attraction between positively and negatively charged ions. Ionic bonds typically occur within compounds and are intramolecular bonds.
- Metallic bond: A metallic bond is formed between metal atoms and involves the sharing of delocalized electrons within a metal lattice. Metallic bonds are intramolecular bonds.
Based on this analysis, the only intermolecular bond among the options is the hydrogen bond.