Questions: Question 9 (4 points) We discussed the different types of intermolecular forces in this lesson, which can affect the boiling point of a substance. Which of these has the highest boiling point? Kr Xe Ar Ne He

Solution Steps

The boiling point of a substance is influenced by the strength of its intermolecular forces. Noble gases like Kr, Xe, Ar, Ne, and He are nonpolar and exhibit London dispersion forces, which are the weakest type of intermolecular force. However, the strength of London dispersion forces increases with the size and mass of the atoms.

The atomic size and mass of the noble gases increase in the following order: He < Ne < Ar < Kr < Xe. As the atomic size and mass increase, the London dispersion forces become stronger, leading to higher boiling points.

Since xenon (Xe) is the largest and heaviest among the given noble gases, it will have the strongest London dispersion forces and, consequently, the highest boiling point.

Final Answer