Question

Which of the following is the correct order for intermolecular forces of attraction?

1. A metallic solid ball 2. Water 3. Oxygen gas present in atmosphere

• A. 1 > 2 > 3
• B. 2 > 1 > 3
• C. 3 > 1 > 2
• D. 3 > 2 > 1

Answer 1

The correct option is A 1 > 2 > 3

Look at the states of all the three things here.
Metallic solid ball $\to$ solid
Water $\to$ Liquid
Oxygen gas $\to$ Gas
Now, think about the intermolecular forces of attraction in the respective states and you will get the answer.
In solids, the intermolecular forces of attraction are very strong.
While in gases, the intermolecular forces of attraction are very weak.
Now, the liquid state is the intermediate state between the gaseous state and solid state. The intermolecular forces of attraction are stronger in the liquid state than in the gaseous state. The molecules of liquids are held together by attractive intermolecular forces.
Therefore,
1>2>3