Chapter 18, Problem 16TE

Which is stronger: the covalent bond that holds atoms together within a molecule or the electrical attraction between two neighbouring molecules?

To determine

Whether the covalent bond or electrical attractions is stronger.

Answer to Problem 16TE

The covalent bond is stronger as it has the overlapping of orbitals as compared to the electronic attraction between the molecules.

Explanation of Solution

A covalent bond is a bond formed by sharing of electrons between the atoms having very less electronegativity difference. The number of unpaired valence electrons in the valence shell undergoes electron interaction to form a covalent bond. The covalent bond is specifically formed by the overlapping of orbitals to share the electrons between the two atoms.

The electrical attraction between the molecules is just the extra amount of forces called a intermolecular Attractive forces. They are very weak types of forces present between the molecules.

Thus, the covalent bond is stronger as it has the overlapping of orbitals as compared to the electronic attraction between the molecules.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the covalent bond is stronger as it has the overlapping of orbitals as compared to the electronic attraction between the molecules