---
title: "Intermolecular Interactions — AP Chem Definition & Guide"
description: "Intermolecular interactions are attractive forces between molecules (LDFs, dipole-dipole, hydrogen bonding) that explain solubility and 'like dissolves like' in AP Chem Unit 3."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-chem/key-terms/intermolecular-interactions"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Chemistry"
---

# Intermolecular Interactions — AP Chem Definition & Guide

## Definition

Intermolecular interactions are forces of attraction between molecules that determine their physical properties and behavior. These interactions include hydrogen bonding, dipole-dipole interactions, London dispersion forces, and ion-dipole interactions.

## Review

### Related Terms

- Hydrogen Bonding: This term refers to the strong intermolecular attraction between a hydrogen atom bonded to an electronegative atom (such as oxygen or nitrogen) and another electronegative atom.
- [Dipole-Dipole Interactions](/ap-chem/key-terms/dipole-dipole-interactions): This term refers to the attractive forces between the positive end of one polar molecule and the negative end of another polar molecule.
- London Dispersion Forces: This term refers to the temporary attractions that occur when electron distribution within a molecule is momentarily uneven, creating temporary dipoles.