Question

Iodine molecules are held in the crystals lattice by __________.

• A. london forces
• B. covalent bonds
• C. coulombic forces
• D. dipole-dipole interactions

Answer 1

The correct option is A london forces

Iodine exists as a diatomic molecule, $I_2$, which is formed when two iodine atoms form a covalent bond. It is a non-polar molecular solid. So, the only intermolecular force of attraction that exists between iodine molecules are relatively weak London forces.

The London dispersion force is a temporary attractive force that results when the electrons in two adjacent atoms occupy positions that make the atoms form temporary dipoles. This force is sometimes called an induced dipole-induced dipole attraction.

Hence, option $\left(A\right)$ is the correct answer.