What forces hold molecules together?

In summary, the strong nuclear force is only relevant in the nucleus of an atom and is responsible for holding protons together against electrostatic repulsion. Molecular bonds, such as covalent and ionic bonds, are dependent on the arrangement of outer shell electrons in the constituent atoms of the molecule.
  • #1
nukeman
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Does the strong nuclear force and the electromagnetic force plat into it at all, as in their role in holding atoms together?
 
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  • #2
The strong nuclear force is significant only in the nucleus of an atom. Its magnitude drops off exponentially with distance, and is essentially nil outside the nucleus. The SNF is responsible for holding the protons in a nucleus together against the force of their electrostatic repulsion due to having like charges.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nuclear_force

Molecular bonds, whether covalent or ionic, depend on the outer shell electron arrangement of the constituent atoms of the molecule.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Covalent_bond

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ionic_bonding
 

Related to What forces hold molecules together?

1. What is the main force that holds molecules together?

The main force that holds molecules together is the chemical bond, which is a force of attraction between atoms that allows them to form molecules.

2. How does the strength of a chemical bond affect the properties of a molecule?

The strength of a chemical bond directly affects the properties of a molecule. Stronger chemical bonds lead to more stable and rigid molecules, while weaker bonds result in more flexible and reactive molecules.

3. Are there different types of chemical bonds?

Yes, there are three main types of chemical bonds: ionic bonds, covalent bonds, and metallic bonds. These bonds differ in the way atoms share or transfer electrons to form a bond.

4. What factors influence the strength of a chemical bond?

The strength of a chemical bond is influenced by several factors, including the types of atoms involved, the distance between the atoms, and the number of electrons shared or transferred between them.

5. How do intermolecular forces contribute to the overall strength of a molecule?

Intermolecular forces, such as hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces, also contribute to the overall strength of a molecule. These forces are weaker than chemical bonds but can still play a significant role in determining the properties and behavior of molecules.

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