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The correct order of increasing intermolecular hydrogen bond strength is

1. HCN < H2O < NH3
2. HCN < CH4 < NH3
3. CH4 < HCN < NH3
4. CH4 < NH3 < HCN

Correct answer: CH4 < HCN < NH3

Solution

Hydrogen bonds are strongest in molecules where hydrogen is bonded to highly electronegative atoms like nitrogen. In this case, CH4 has no hydrogen bonding capability, HCN has moderate hydrogen bonding due to the presence of nitrogen, and NH3 has the strongest hydrogen bonds because of its ability to form multiple hydrogen bonds with surrounding molecules.

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