Question

The process of sublimation is only shown by volatile solids. Explain the statement in the light of intermolecular forces of attraction with examples.

Answer 1

Sublimation is the process by which a solid directly changes state from solid to gas. Sublimation is seen in volatile solids because in volatile solids, the vapor pressure is very high. Substances with high vapor pressure have weaker intermolecular forces and their molecules can easily escape from them into the atmosphere. High vapor pressure means that the molecules in the solid can easily overcome the weak intermolecular forces and the atmospheric pressure even in low temperatures and escape into the atmosphere. Therefore occurrence of the process of sublimation.