Van der Waals interactions

Van der Waals interactions are weak forces that occur between molecules or atoms due to temporary fluctuations in their charge distribution. When electrons move around, they create tiny, momentary areas of positive and negative charge. These transient charges can attract neighboring molecules, leading to a subtle pull known as Van der Waals forces. Although individually small, these interactions are collectively significant in many natural processes, such as how gases condense into liquids or how molecules stick together in biological systems. They are essential for understanding material properties and molecular behavior at an atomic level.