Final answer:
Induced dipoles occur in neutral atoms or nonpolar molecules when they are influenced by an external electric field or the presence of adjacent atoms with instantaneous dipoles, resulting in temporary dipole moments and weak interatomic attractions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Induced dipoles occur within neutral atoms or spherically symmetric molecules that do not have a permanent dipole moment. When an external electric field is applied or when these atoms are adjacent to other atoms or molecules with temporary dipole moments, they can experience an induced dipole moment. For instance, pairs of He atoms, which are typically symmetrical and neutral, can have induced dipoles due to the constant motion of electrons. This results in attractions between atoms that can be quantitatively described using quantum mechanics, as the attractive energy between them decreases with the sixth power of the distance separating them. Furthermore, larger atoms or molecules are more polarizable because it is easier to deform their electron distribution, which leads to stronger induced dipole interactions.