6
AssignmentMultiple Choice

Properties of Water

Question 6 • *STPSB_Environmental Science 2627

The attraction forces between mercury atoms in liquid mercury are stronger than the intermolecular forces between water molecules. Which of the following is most likely true about mercury?

Answer
A
It has a higher surface tension than does water.
B
It exhibits greater capillary action than does water.
C
It is very soluble in water.

Explanation

Stronger attraction between mercury atoms means mercury has stronger cohesive forces. Stronger cohesion generally produces greater surface tension, so mercury is likely to have a higher surface tension than water. Capillary action depends on both cohesion and attraction to the surface of the tube, and mercury’s weak attraction to many surfaces means it does not necessarily show greater capillary action; it is also not very soluble in water.

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