Chemistry Intramolecular, intermolecular, electrostatic forces

AI Thread Summary
Intermolecular forces, also known as electrostatic forces, act between molecules and vary in strength, being strongest in liquids and weakest in gases. These forces depend on the product of the charges of the interacting particles and are inversely related to the square of the distance between them. In contrast, intramolecular forces, which include covalent, ionic, and metallic bonds, are significantly stronger and hold atoms together within a molecule. Van der Waals forces can occur even between uncharged molecules, while charged molecules experience direct attractions or repulsions that tend to neutralize quickly. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for grasping molecular interactions.
gomess
Messages
14
Reaction score
0
I'm getting a bit confused as to what each force refers to. Correct me if I am wrong,

Intermolecular forces (also referred to as electrostatic forces), are forces that exist between molecules. These forces can very in strength, strongest in liquids, relatively weaker in liquids, and almost non existent in gases. Intermolecular forces are directly proportional to the quantity of charge of the first particle times the quantity of charges of the second particle. They are inversely proportional to the distance squared between the molecules.

Intramolecular forces are relatively much strong stronger when compared to intermolecular forces. Intramolecular forces are what bind atoms together. Covalent, ionic, and metallic bonds are examples of intramolecular forces.

^^ Does that sound okay? Any help is greatly appreciated
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You can have intermolecular forces with uncharged molecules as well - this is known as Van-der-Waals force. If both molecules are charged, their direct attraction/repulsion based on that charge is dominant, but they tend to neutralize quickly.
 
Ah I see. Greatly appreciated! much thanks!
 
Back
Top