How are London forces (Van Der Waals) formed?

This is the weakest intermolecular force. It is formed by the uneven distribution of electrons in a molecule which induces a dipole in the molecule (meaning a delta positive and delta negative charge forms across it). When this partially charged molecule comes into contact with another molecule, it induces a dipole in it. The two molecules are them attracted as negative attracts positive forming the London force.

SH
Answered by Sonia H. Chemistry tutor

3442 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

How would you expect the H-NMR spectrum of ethanol to differ from the H-NMR spectrum of ethane?


How does a acid buffer work?


How to write a redox equation from half equations


How do you answer a questions on how a buffer solution works?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning