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.
Analogy
Consider Van der Waals forces like magnets at close range - they don't do much from afar, but bring them close enough and you'll feel an attraction!
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.
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