---
title: "Intermolecular Forces — AP Chem Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Intermolecular forces (IMFs) are attractions between molecules that set boiling points, melting points, and solubility. Central to AP Chem Units 2, 3, and 7."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-chem/key-terms/intermolecular-forces"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Chemistry"
---

# Intermolecular Forces — AP Chem Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

These are the forces that occur between molecules. They're weaker than intramolecular forces but still crucial for determining properties like boiling and melting points.

## Related Study Guides

- [3.2 Properties of Solids](/ap-chem/unit-3/properties-solids/study-guide/0lW4bHW7ksIahDb0zW9v)
- [2.2 Intramolecular Force and Potential Energy ](/ap-chem/unit-2/intramolecular-force-potential-energy/study-guide/2ybBItwMrCkB9MAOO9lC)
- [3.10 Solubility](/ap-chem/unit-3/solubility/study-guide/XmVywOyhrzQscHR0OYP1)
- [3.1 Intermolecular and Interparticle Forces](/ap-chem/unit-3/intermolecular-forces/study-guide/aq9pSoNJoW70eCdben01)
- [7.14 Free Energy of Dissolution](/ap-chem/unit-7/free-energy-dissolution/study-guide/tsCK6wFJQBajLTmMNv44)

## Review

### Related Terms

- London Dispersion Forces: These are weak intermolecular attractions resulting from instantaneous changes in electron density in a molecule.
- [Dipole-Dipole Interactions](/ap-chem/key-terms/dipole-dipole-interactions): These occur when polar molecules align such that positive and negative ends line up with each other.
- Hydrogen Bonds: A special type of dipole-dipole interaction involving hydrogen atom bonded to highly electronegative elements like oxygen or nitrogen.