AP Chemistry Solutions Intermolecular/Interparticle Forces

A set of vocabulary flashcards reviewing intermolecular and interparticle forces for AP Chemistry, including polar bonds, dipoles, dispersion forces, and ionic forces.

Polar bond

A bond between two non-metal atoms where opposite sides have partial charges, with its strength determined by the electronegativity difference.

Molecular dipole

A molecule with positive and negative sides that is not symmetrical. A greater electronegativity difference between the sides creates a stronger dipole, leading to higher melting and boiling points.

Dipole-dipole intermolecular forces

Attractive forces between polar molecules caused by oppositely charged sides attracting each other, where stronger dipoles result in stronger attractions.

London dispersion forces

Attractive forces caused by temporary induced dipoles between non-polar molecules (which also exist in all molecules). Molecules with more electrons, or larger molecules, have stronger London dispersion forces.

Ionic forces

The attractive forces that exist between ions, which typically form between metals and non-metals.