What are intermolecular forces (IMFs)?

Intermolecular forces (IMFs) refer to the attractive forces that exist between molecules. They play a crucial role in determining the physical properties of substances, such as boiling points, melting points, and solubility. The correct answer highlights that these forces are present between all types of molecules, including polar molecules, non-polar molecules, and even in ionic compounds when they interact with solvent molecules.

Unlike covalent bonds, which are intramolecular forces that occur within a substance and hold atoms together to form molecules, intermolecular forces are relatively weaker and govern the interactions between different molecules. Therefore, this distinction is important to recognize.

In the context of the other choices, it is clear why they are not accurate descriptions of intermolecular forces. Intermolecular forces do not solely take place in ionic compounds or are limited to gaseous molecules; rather, they are universal features of molecular interactions in all states of matter (solid, liquid, and gas). This broad applicability of intermolecular forces is what makes answer B the correct choice.