According to C.E van der Waal, the interatomic potential varies with the average interatomic distance (R) as

Options

A. `R^(-1)`
B. `R^(-2)`
C. `R^(-4)`
D. `R^(-6)`

Answer

To solve the question regarding the relationship between interatomic potential and average interatomic distance (R) according to C.E. van der Waals, we will follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Interatomic Potential**:
- Interatomic potential refers to the potential energy that arises from the interactions between atoms. It is a function of the distance between the atoms.

2. **Identifying the Relationship**:
- According to C.E. van der Waals, the interatomic potential (V) varies with the average interatomic distance (R). We need to determine how V is related to R.

3. **Analyzing the Options**:
- The options provided are:
1. \( R^{-1} \)
2. \( R^{-2} \)
3. \( R^{-4} \)
4. \( R^{-6} \)

4. **Applying van der Waals' Theory**:
- Based on van der Waals' theory, the interatomic potential is inversely proportional to the sixth power of the interatomic distance. This means:
\[ V \propto R^{-6} \]

5. **Conclusion**:
- From the analysis, we conclude that the correct relationship is:
\[ V \propto R^{-6} \]
- Therefore, the correct answer is option 4: \( R^{-6} \).

### Final Answer:
The interatomic potential varies with the average interatomic distance (R) as \( R^{-6} \).

---