What are Van Der Waals dispersion forces?

Van der Waals forces are a form of intermolecular (between molecules) force. 

A covalent bond is created by a shared pair of electons. (For example two chlorine atoms will share 2 electrons to form a Clmolecule). 

Within a covalent bonds, the electrons are not fixed, but constantly moving around the atoms. These may form temporary dipoles (even if the two atoms are of equal electronegativity such as Cl2).

These temporary dipoles will attract their opposite dipole and repel the same dipole (ie. d+ attracts d-). These random temporary dipioles are constantly forming, leading to attraction between molecules.

Van der Waals dispersion forces are considered a weak form of intermolecular force.

 

 

ZA
Answered by Zuhayr A. Chemistry tutor

6262 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

How could you obtain a carboxylic acid from oxidation of an alcohol and what type of alcohol would be suitable?


Explain the reactions of CH3CH2Cl with the nucleophile NH3 and name the initial product formed.


Give the two reactions required in order to convert an alcohol into a hydroxynitrile. Include reactants and conditions. (6 marks)


Which of the following shows the formation of the intermediate in the mechanism for the reaction between ethene and bromine?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning