● Intermolecular forces include London (dispersion) forces, dipole–dipole forces, and hydrogen
bonding.
Guidance
The term ‘London (dispersion) forces’ refers to instantaneous dipole–induced dipole forces that exist
between any atoms or groups of atoms and should be used for non-polar entities. The term ‘van
der Waals’ is an inclusive term, which includes dipole–dipole, dipole–induced dipole, and London
(dispersion) forces.
● The relative strengths of these interactions are London (dispersion) forces < dipole–dipole forces <
hydrogen bonds.

● Deduction of the types of intermolecular force present in substances, based on their structure and
chemical formula.
● Explanation of the physical properties of covalent compounds (volatility, electrical conductivity,
and solubility) in terms of their structure and intermolecular forces.