Question

identify which compound, acetone, \\((\text{ch}_3)_2\text{co}\\), or water, \\((\text{h}_2\text{o})\\), has a greater surface tension and why.

\\((\text{ch}_3)_2\text{co}\\) because it has the weaker intermolecular forces.
\\((\text{ch}_3)_2\text{co}\\) because it has the stronger intermolecular forces.
\\(\text{h}_2\text{o}\\) because it has the weaker intermolecular forces.
\\(\text{h}_2\text{o}\\) because it has the stronger intermolecular forces.

Explanation:

Identify intermolecular forces in each compound

Using the Hydrogen Bonding and Intermolecular Forces knowledge points

• Water, \(\text{H}_2\text{O}\), exhibits strong hydrogen bonding.
• Acetone, \((\text{CH}_3)_2\text{CO}\), exhibits weaker dipole-dipole interactions.

Relate intermolecular forces to surface tension

Using the Intermolecular Forces knowledge point

• Stronger intermolecular forces lead to greater surface tension.
• Water has stronger intermolecular forces than acetone.

Determine the correct option

Using the Intermolecular Forces knowledge point

• \(\text{H}_2\text{O}\) has a greater surface tension.
• This is because it has stronger intermolecular forces.

Answer:

• (A) \((\text{CH}_3)_2\text{CO}\) because it has the weaker intermolecular forces.
• (B) \((\text{CH}_3)_2\text{CO}\) because it has the stronger intermolecular forces.
• (C) \(\text{H}_2\text{O}\) because it has the weaker intermolecular forces.
• (D) \(\text{H}_2\text{O}\) because it has the stronger intermolecular forces. (Correct answer)