Question

what force in liquids causes surface tension?

intermolecular forces

intramolecular forces

ionic forces

covalent forces

Explanation:

Identify the physical phenomenon

Surface tension is a property of the surface of a liquid that allows it to resist an external force, due to the cohesive nature of its molecules.

Analyze the forces acting between molecules

The cohesive forces between liquid molecules are attractive forces that act between neighboring molecules. These attractions between separate molecules are classified as intermolecular forces.

Evaluate the given options

• Intermolecular forces act between molecules, causing cohesion and surface tension.
• Intramolecular forces act within a single molecule (like covalent bonds holding atoms together).
• Ionic and covalent forces are types of chemical bonds (intramolecular or lattice forces) rather than the cohesive forces between neutral liquid molecules.

Answer:

• intermolecular forces (Correct answer)
• intramolecular forces
• ionic forces
• covalent forces