Definition of Intermolecular Forces



The intermolecular forces are also known as the secondary forces and they are the one which allows the interactions between the various types of atoms. They tend to act between the atoms and the ions and include the forces of attraction and repulsion.

 


The intermolecular forces are comparatively weaker than the intramolecular forces. This is due to the fact that the intramolecular forces have to hold the atoms of the molecules together. Both of these forces are necessary for the stability of the molecules.

 


Examples of Intermolecular Forces:

The examples of attractive intermolecular forces are hydrogen bonding, van der Waal forces, ion-dipole forces, induced dipole forces, etc.

 

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