Mendeleev · Science

Intermolecular forces

Properties of molecular liquids and solids depend strongly on interactions between molecules: dispersion, dipole-dipole forces and, in some cases, hydrogen bonding.

Core idea

Properties of molecular liquids and solids depend strongly on interactions between molecules: dispersion, dipole-dipole forces and, in some cases, hydrogen bonding.

Example

Water boils much higher than a simple look at its low molar mass might suggest, in part because of its hydrogen-bond network.

Common trap

A formula or trend is useful only when its definition and conditions of use are clear.

Check yourself

Explain the phenomenon in your own words, then identify which quantity or mechanism you would use to quantify it.

Water boils much higher than a simple look at its low molar mass might suggest, in part because of its hydrogen-bond network.