Question

which liquid would have the highest volatility (ability to move from liquid to gas)? ch₂o (dispersion, dipole - dipole) h₂o (dispersion, dipole - dipole, hydrogen bonding) ch₄ (dispersion) hf (dispersion, dipole - dipole, hydrogen bonding)

Explanation:

Volatility depends on intermolecular forces (weaker forces = higher volatility). $CH_4$ only has weak dispersion forces. $CH_2O$ has dispersion + dipole-dipole (stronger than dispersion alone). $H_2O$ and $HF$ have hydrogen bonding (strongest intermolecular force here). Thus, $CH_4$ has the weakest forces and highest volatility.

Answer:

CH₄ (Dispersion)