Van der Waals interactions

Definition

Weak attractions between molecules or parts of molecules due to temporary partial charges. These interactions are critical in biological systems for maintaining structure and function.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Van der Waals interactions occur due to transient dipoles in molecules.
2. They are weaker than covalent and ionic bonds but crucial in biological processes.
3. These interactions help stabilize the three-dimensional structures of proteins and other macromolecules.
4. Van der Waals forces include attractions (dispersion forces) and repulsions (steric repulsion).
5. The strength of van der Waals interactions increases with the size of the molecule.

Review Questions

• What causes van der Waals interactions?
• Why are van der Waals interactions important in biological systems?
• How do van der Waals forces compare in strength to covalent and ionic bonds?

Related terms

Hydrogen Bond: A weak bond between two molecules resulting from an electrostatic attraction between a proton in one molecule and an electronegative atom in the other.

Covalent Bond: A strong bond formed when two atoms share pairs of electrons.

Ionic Bond: A chemical bond formed between two ions with opposite charges through electrostatic attraction.