Van der Waals Forces

Definition

Van der Waals forces are weak attractions between molecules due to temporary shifts in electron density creating temporary positive and negative charges.

Related terms

Dipole-Dipole Interaction: A type of intermolecular force that occurs between polar molecules.

London Dispersion Forces: The weakest type of Van der Waals forces, occurring due to temporary shifts in electron density.

Hydrophobic Interactions: Nonpolar interactions that occur when hydrophobic (water-fearing) molecules cluster together in an aqueous solution.