Question

Van der waals interactions may result when ________.

Answer 1

Van der Waals interactions may result when there are weak attractions or interactions between molecules caused by slightly positively charged or slightly negatively charged atoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

Van der Waals interactions may result when there are weak attractions or interactions between molecules caused by slightly positively charged or slightly negatively charged atoms. These interactions occur due to temporary partial charges that form when electrons in the electron cloud around the nucleus move about unevenly.

This results in fluctuating dipoles that can induce corresponding dipoles in neighboring atoms or molecules, creating an attraction known as London dispersion forces. Additionally, polar molecules can have permanent dipole-dipole interactions, which are a type of Van der Waals force.

These interactions are essential in biological systems, especially in contributing to the three-dimensional structure of proteins which is vital for their function. While they are weaker than other types of chemical bonds, such as ionic, covalent, and hydrogen bonds, Van der Waals interactions play a significant role in the properties and structure of many compounds.

Answer 2

Van der Waals interactions may result when electrons are not symmetrically distributed in a molecule. Van der Waals forces, in physical chemistry are essentially associated with the name of a Dutch researcher Johannes Diderik van der Waals and indicate the separation of dependent interactions among particles and atoms.