Identify the nature of xenon gas

Xenon ($\mathrm{Xe}$) is a noble gas atom. It exists as monoatomic particles and is nonpolar.

Check which intermolecular forces are possible

Since xenon is a neutral, nonpolar atom:

• Dipole-dipole forces require permanent dipoles, so this is not possible.
• Ion-dipole forces require ions and polar molecules, so this is not possible.
• Ionic interaction requires ions, so this is not possible.
• Instantaneous dipole-induced dipole forces can exist between all atoms and nonpolar molecules due to temporary fluctuations in electron density.

Force responsible for liquefaction

In xenon, temporary distortion of the electron cloud creates an instantaneous dipole, which induces a dipole in a neighboring atom. This gives rise to London dispersion forces:

$\text{Instantaneous dipole} - \text{induced dipole}$

These weak van der Waals forces are responsible for the liquefaction of xenon gas.

Evaluate options

• A: Dipole-dipole $\rightarrow$ Incorrect
• B: Ion-dipole $\rightarrow$ Incorrect
• C: Instantaneous dipole-induced dipole $\rightarrow$ Correct
• D: Ionic $\rightarrow$ Incorrect

Final answer

The intermolecular force most responsible for liquefaction of xenon is:

$\boxed{\text{C: Instantaneous dipole-induced dipole}}$

Comparison with stored correct answer

Stored correct answer = C

Derived answer = C

Hence, the derived answer agrees with the stored correct answer.