Final answer:
Van der Waals interactions are weak attractions or interactions between molecules. They occur between polar, covalently bound atoms in different molecules. These bonds contribute to the three-dimensional structure of proteins.
Step-by-step explanation:
Van der Waals interactions are weak attractions or interactions between molecules. They occur between polar, covalently bound, atoms in different molecules. These weak attractions are caused by temporary partial charges formed when electrons move around a nucleus. Van der Waals attractions can occur between any two or more molecules and are dependent on slight fluctuations of the electron densities, which are not always symmetrical around an atom. For these attractions to happen, the molecules need to be very close to one another. These bonds, along with ionic, covalent, and hydrogen bonds, contribute to the three-dimensional structure of the proteins in our cells that is necessary for their proper function.