Intermolecular forces and boiling point

Join the discussion
Ask a follow-up here, or get your own question answered by working scientists, mathematicians and engineers — people, not an autocomplete.
Real named experts · corrections over time · the nuance an AI answer skips
2 replies · 2K views
Samson4
Messages
242
Reaction score
15
I've come to understand that intermolecular forces cause the boiling point of hydrochloric acid solutions below 20% to be higher than the boiling point of water. I also understand that dissolving hcl in water is an exothermic reaction. But, what about those intermolecular forces. I assume they are dipole interactions.

My question: If ions in an electrolyte like hydrochloric acid are made to collect on a charged surface, will they absorb heat when the charged surface is grounded? I think they will because, as they spread out and homogenize, they will reform the interactions that require heat to break. Is this correct?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
When a conductor is charged in an electrolyte; ions move towards the conductor. When the conductor is grounded, the ions disperse in the electrolyte. I am asking if thermal energy is needed for the ions to disperse and establish intermolecular forces.