London dispersion forces

Definition

These are temporary attractive forces that result when the electrons in two adjacent atoms occupy positions that make the atoms form temporary dipoles.

Related terms

Instantaneous Dipole: A momentary uneven distribution of electrons in an atom or molecule leading to a temporary polarity.

Induced Dipole: An otherwise nonpolar atom or molecule becomes temporarily polar due to proximity to another charged particle or group.

Polarizability:

The ease with which an electron cloud can be distorted by an electric field.