Intermolecular Forces - GCSE Chemistry Definition

Intermolecular forces are the forces of attraction between molecules, which determine how they interact with each other. These forces are much weaker than the strong covalent or ionic bonds that hold atoms together within a molecule. Common types of intermolecular forces include Van der Waals forces, dipole-dipole interactions, and hydrogen bonds. These forces affect properties like boiling and melting points, solubility, and the physical state of a substance (solid, liquid, or gas). Understanding intermolecular forces helps explain why different substances behave differently under various conditions.