Question

Arrange the following substances in the increasing order of forces of attraction between their particles : Water, ice, steam.

Answer 1

Intermolecular force of attraction:

1. There is always a force acting between the particles of the matter which is known as the intermolecular force of attraction.
2. In solids the molecules are tightly packed thus they have the maximum intermolecular force of attraction.
3. In liquids, the molecules are loosely packed as compared to solids thus the intermolecular force of attraction in liquids is less than in solids but more than in liquids.
4. In gases, the molecules are loosely packed thus the intermolecular force of attraction is negligible.
5. These forces of attraction are maximum in solids and minimum in gases.
6. Thus, the increasing order of the intermolecular force of attraction is gases < liquids < solids.
7. Water also exists in three states i.e., ice, liquid water and water vapour.
8. Here ice is in solid form, steam is in gaseous form and water is in liquid form.

Hence, the increasing order of forces of attraction between their particles is given as follows: Steam $<$Water $<$Ice.