How are London forces (Van Der Waals) formed?

This is the weakest intermolecular force. It is formed by the uneven distribution of electrons in a molecule which induces a dipole in the molecule (meaning a delta positive and delta negative charge forms across it). When this partially charged molecule comes into contact with another molecule, it induces a dipole in it. The two molecules are them attracted as negative attracts positive forming the London force.

SH
Answered by Sonia H. Chemistry tutor

3683 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the acid dissociation constant, Ka of the 0.150 mol dm–3 solution of weak acid HA with pH of 2.34?


What stabilizes a carbocation in a nucleophilic substitution reactions?


In transition metals, where does the formation of colour come from?


1. Why does the first ionisation energy of atoms generally increase across a period?


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning