Question

molecules are attracted to one another by van der waals forces. how do van der waals forces compare with ionic and covalent bonds?
a. van der waals forces are stronger than ionic and covalent bonds.
b. van der waals forces are weaker than ionic and covalent bonds.
c. van der waals forces are stronger than ionic bonds, but weaker than covalent bonds.
d. van der waals forces are stronger than covalent bonds, but weaker than ionic bonds.

Explanation:

Ionic bonds involve the transfer of electrons between atoms creating charged ions that attract each other, and covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons between atoms. Van der Waals forces are weak intermolecular forces resulting from temporary dipoles or induced - dipoles. They are much weaker than the strong electrostatic forces in ionic bonds and the electron - sharing forces in covalent bonds.

Answer:

B. Van der Waals forces are weaker than ionic and covalent bonds.