Intermolecular Forces

A set of vocabulary flashcards focusing on key terms and concepts related to intermolecular forces.

Intermolecular Forces

Forces between one molecule and another, also known as Van der Waals forces (IMFs).

Intramolecular Forces

Forces within a molecule, which can be either ionic or covalent bonds.

Cohesion

The forces that bind molecules together to form a bulk material.

Boiling Point (b.p.)

The best measure of intermolecular forces; higher boiling point indicates stronger IMFs.

Dipole-Dipole Forces

Attractive forces between two polar molecules.

Ion-Dipole Forces

Attractive forces between a polar molecule and an ion.

Hydrogen Bonding

A type of strong dipole-dipole interaction; occurs when H is attracted to N, O, or F.

London Dispersion Forces

Weak forces that arise from temporary dipoles induced in atoms or molecules, present in all substances with electrons.

Solvation

The process where solvent molecules surround and interact with solute molecules or ions.

Like Dissolves Like

The principle stating that polar compounds tend to dissolve in polar solvents and non-polar compounds in non-polar solvents.

Hydrophilic

Describes substances that are water-attracting, typically polar.

Hydrophobic

Describes substances that are water-repelling, typically non-polar.

Normal Boiling Point (Tb)

The temperature at which the vapor pressure of a liquid equals atmospheric pressure (1 atm).

Critical Temperature (Tc)

The temperature above which a substance cannot be condensed to a liquid regardless of pressure.

Supercritical Fluid

A substance at a temperature and pressure above its critical point, exhibiting properties of both gas and liquid.