NEETChemistryChemical Bonding and Molecular Structure
What is the van der Waals radius used to represent?
Options
- AThe distance between two similar atoms in separate molecules in a solid.
- BThe overall size of the atom including its valence shell in a nonbonded situation.
- CThe distance between two dissimilar atoms in a covalent bond.
- DThe radius of an atom's core in contact with the core of an adjacent atom in a bonded situation.
Correct answer
B. The overall size of the atom including its valence shell in a nonbonded situation.
Step-by-step solution
The van der Waals radius represents the overall size of the atom, including its valence shell, in a nonbonded situation.