Question

Which of the following forces is dictated by entropic effects?

• A. \( \text{Atom-atom repulsion based on the Pauli Exclusion principle} \)
• B. \( \text{Electrostatic interactions} \)
• C. \( \text{Hydrophobic interactions} \)
• D. \( \text{Charge-transfer interactions} \)

Hint:

Hydrophobic interactions stabilize protein folding and membrane formation by minimizing water structuring.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Hydrophobic interactions are largely governed by entropy-driven effects, occurring when nonpolar molecules cluster to minimize water structuring around them. This reduces the overall entropy loss, favoring thermodynamic stability. Other forces, such as electrostatic or charge-transfer interactions, are dictated by electromagnetic effects.