Superoxides of alkali metals are paramagnetic. — Chemical Bonding Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Step 1: The strength of a hydrogen bond (X-H...Y) is directly proportional to the electronegativity of the highly electronegative atoms (X and Y) involved, as a more electronegative atom creates a greater partial positive charge on the hydrogen and holds a stronger partial negative charge on the acceptor atom. Step 2: Comparing Fluorine, Oxygen, and Nitrogen, their electronegativities decrease in the order: F (4.0) > O (3.5) > N (3.0). Step 3: Consequently, the strength of the hydrogen bonds follows the decreasing order of H...F > H...O > H...N, which corresponds to option (a).