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What is the role of intermolecular forces in determining the state of matter of a substance?

BiologyClass 9CBSEAnswered 12 May 2026
Answer

Intermolecular forces play a crucial role in determining the state of matter. Strong intermolecular forces hold particles tightly together in fixed positions, resulting in a solid state. Weaker intermolecular forces allow particles to move past each other but still keep them relatively close, characteristic of a liquid state. 

Negligible intermolecular forces allow particles to move freely and far apart, leading to a gaseous state. Thus, the strength of these forces dictates how closely particles are packed and how much freedom of movement they possess.

Biology · Class 9