"A sample of a nonpolar molecules capable of only dispersion forces can have a higher boiling point the a sample of a polar molecules capable of hydrogen bonding. This statement can only be true if the formula weight of nonpolar molecule(the answers are =,<, or >)the formula weight of the polar molecule."
Dispersion forces depend upon the size of the molecule; that is, upon the molar mass. Therefore, the molar mass MUST be larger for the non-polar molecule.
To determine the relationship between the boiling points of a nonpolar molecule and a polar molecule, we need to evaluate the impact of intermolecular forces and molecular weight.
1. Intermolecular forces:
Nonpolar molecules can only exhibit dispersion forces, while polar molecules can exhibit both dispersion forces and hydrogen bonding. Hydrogen bonding is generally stronger than dispersion forces. Therefore, if a nonpolar molecule has a higher boiling point than a polar molecule, it implies that the nonpolar molecule must have an exceptionally high molecular weight (formula weight).
2. Molecular weight:
Higher molecular weight generally leads to stronger intermolecular forces, as there are more atoms in the molecule to interact with neighboring molecules. Consequently, a higher molecular weight tends to result in a higher boiling point.
Considering these factors, we can conclude that the formula weight of the nonpolar molecule must be greater than the formula weight of the polar molecule for the given statement to be true.
Therefore, the correct answer symbol in this case would be ">" (formula weight of nonpolar molecule is greater than the formula weight of the polar molecule).