Work through the list without notes. If you cannot do a statement, follow its link, then come back. Guide = study guide; Practice = practice questions.
Understanding
- I can explain the difference between the bonds inside a molecule and the forces between molecules, and say which ones boiling overcomes. (Guide: “Forces between particles, not inside them”)
- I can explain how a temporary dipole induces a dipole in a neighbouring particle to produce London dispersion forces. (Guide: Figure 1; Practice Q2)
- I can explain why “London dispersion forces” and “van der Waals forces” are not the same term. (Guide: “A naming note”)
- I can state the two conditions for hydrogen bonding and spot molecules that have H and O but cannot hydrogen bond with themselves. (Guide: “Hydrogen bonding”; Practice Q1)
- I can describe the noncovalent interactions that hold large biomolecules in shape. (Guide: “Forces inside large biomolecules”; Practice Q6)
Skills
- I can predict how electron count, π bonds and branching change the strength of dispersion forces. (Guide: “What makes dispersion forces stronger”; Practice Q4)
- I can draw or describe how partial charges line up in dipole–dipole forces, hydrogen bonds and ion–dipole forces. (Guide: Figures 2 and 3; Practice Q5(c), Q6(b))
- I can name the force acting between two different species, such as an ion and water or a polar and a nonpolar molecule. (Guide: Worked example 3; Practice Q3)
Reasoning
- I can rank substances of similar size by the strength of their intermolecular forces and predict their boiling point order. (Guide: Worked example 1; Practice Q5)
- I can explain why a large nonpolar molecule can have stronger intermolecular forces than a small polar one. (Guide: Worked example 2; Practice Q7)
- I can evaluate a general claim about intermolecular forces using boiling point data. (Practice Q7)
All ticked? Move on to Topic 3.2, Properties of Solids, or return to the course roadmap.