Polarisation and Intermolecular Forces

Flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to electronegativity, bond polarity, and intermolecular forces.

Electronegativity

The power of an atom to attract electrons in a covalent bond, reaching its highest level at the top right of the Periodic Table.

Polar covalent bonds

Covalent bonds characterized by an uneven distribution of electrons between different atoms.

Permanent dipole

A persistent separation of electrical charge that occurs in a molecule unless the polarity is symmetrical.

Partial charges ($\delta+$ and $\delta-$)

Notations used to represent the polarity and uneven electron distribution within a molecule.

Intermolecular forces

Forces occurring between molecules that are weaker than intramolecular bonds and influence a molecule's melting and boiling points.

London/van der Waals forces

A category of intermolecular forces consisting of induced dipole-dipole interactions.

Hydrogen bonding

A form of strong permanent dipole-dipole force found in substances like water, leading to a higher boiling point compared to similar molecules.