molecular forces

Molecular forces are the attractive or repulsive interactions between molecules that determine the physical properties of substances. These forces include van der Waals forces (weak attractions due to temporary electron shifts), hydrogen bonds (stronger attractions involving hydrogen atoms bonded to electronegative elements like oxygen or nitrogen), and dipole-dipole interactions (forces between molecules with permanent charges). They influence melting and boiling points, solubility, and states of matter. Although individual intermolecular forces are weaker than chemical bonds within molecules, collectively they play a crucial role in shaping the behavior of substances.