Question

Which of the following has the strongest force of attraction between its particles at room temperature?

• A. Nitrogen gas
• B. Mercury
• C. Iron
• D. Chalk

Answer 1

The correct option is C Iron

We know the interparticle distance (distance between the particles) of solids is much less than liquids and gases. The order of force of attraction in different fundamental states of matter is Gases < Liquids < Solids.

Nitrogen is a gas at room temperature. So, it's particles have more space and less attraction between them than a solid.

Mercury is liquid at room temperature. So, it's particles have comparatively more space and less attraction between them, than a solid. However, its particles have less space and more attraction in between them as compared to gases.

Chalk and iron both are both solid at room temperature but the force of attraction between particles in iron is stronger than that in chalk. When we hammer chalk it turns into powder. However, iron will remain the same. Order of intermolecular forces of attraction is: $Nitrogen<Mercury<Chalk<Iron$.