intermolecular forces in proteins

Intermolecular forces in proteins are the attractions between different molecules or parts of molecules that help maintain their structure and function. These forces include hydrogen bonds, ionic interactions, Van der Waals forces, and hydrophobic effects. They enable proteins to fold into specific shapes, stick together, and interact with other molecules, which is essential for their biological roles. Think of these forces as molecular "glues" that hold the protein's shape and facilitate interactions critical for life processes. They are generally weaker than covalent bonds but collectively powerful enough to determine a protein’s overall structure.