An instantaneous dipole occurs when the electrons in an atom or molecule are distributed asymmetrically at a given moment, creating a temporary dipole. This transient phenomenon leads to induced dipoles in adjacent molecules and results in intermolecular attractions known as London dispersion forces.
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Instantaneous dipoles are temporary and fluctuate rapidly within a molecule or atom.
The formation of an instantaneous dipole can induce dipoles in neighboring molecules, leading to intermolecular attractions.
These interactions are a key component of London dispersion forces, which occur even in nonpolar molecules.
Instantaneous dipoles depend on the polarizability of the molecule; larger atoms or molecules with more electrons have stronger dispersion forces.
Despite being weak individually, London dispersion forces due to instantaneous dipoles can cumulatively have significant effects on the physical properties of substances.
Review Questions
What is an instantaneous dipole and how does it form?
How do instantaneous dipoles contribute to London dispersion forces?
Why are larger atoms or molecules more likely to have stronger dispersion forces due to instantaneous dipoles?
Related terms
London Dispersion Forces: A type of weak intermolecular force arising from temporary fluctuations in electron distribution that create transient dipoles.
Polarizability: \text{A measure of how easily the electron cloud around an atom or molecule can be distorted to form a temporary dipole.}
Induced Dipole: \text{A temporary dipole that occurs when one molecule with a permanent or instantaneous dipole induces a similar charge distribution in a neighboring molecule.}