Overview
This lecture explains the difference between intramolecular and intermolecular forces, focusing on their definitions, where they occur, and why the distinction matters in chemistry.
Intramolecular Forces
- Intramolecular forces are forces that exist within a molecule, holding its atoms together.
- These forces are the same as chemical bonds (e.g., ionic, covalent, and metallic bonds).
- Intramolecular forces involve the sharing or transfer of electrons between atoms within one molecule.
Intermolecular Forces
- Intermolecular forces are forces that exist between two or more separate molecules.
- These forces attract molecules to each other but do not create chemical bonds.
- Intermolecular forces result from regions of opposite charge attracting each other; no sharing or transfer of electrons occurs.
Key Difference: Intra vs. Inter
- The key difference is location: intramolecular forces occur within a single molecule, while intermolecular forces occur between different molecules.
- "Intra-" means "within" or "inside"; "inter-" means "between" or "among."
Key Terms & Definitions
- Intramolecular Force — force or bond holding atoms together within a single molecule.
- Intermolecular Force — attraction between two or more separate molecules; not a bond.
- Bond — a stable association between atoms involving electron sharing or transfer.
- Ionic Bond — bond formed by the transfer of electrons.
- Covalent Bond — bond formed by the sharing of electrons.
- Metallic Bond — bond involving delocalized electrons among metal atoms.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the definitions and examples of ionic, covalent, and metallic bonds.
- Understand the distinction by identifying intramolecular and intermolecular forces in sample molecules.
- Watch further videos on bonding and intermolecular forces for deeper understanding.