London Forces
What is London Forces?
London dispersion forces (London forces) are weak, short-range intermolecular forces arising from temporary dipoles induced by fluctuations in the electron distribution of nonpolar molecules or atoms. They are the only intermolecular forces present between nonpolar molecules (such as noble gases and hydrocarbons) and are always present alongside other intermolecular forces. London forces increase with molecular size and polarizability, explaining why larger nonpolar molecules have higher boiling points.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
London dispersion forces (London forces) are weak, short-range intermolecular forces arising from temporary dipoles induced by fluctuations in the electron distribution of nonpolar molecules or atoms. They are the only intermolecular forces present between nonpolar molecules (such as noble gases and hydrocarbons) and are always present alongside other intermolecular forces. London forces increase with molecular size and polarizability, explaining why larger nonpolar molecules have higher boiling points.