

H 2 is a light gas whose compression into hydrogen cylinders is only possible if it associates by forming close dimers. The simplest example used here to understand the London dispersion force is hydrogen (H 2), a homonuclear diatomic nonpolar molecule. Occurrence of London Dispersion Forces in nonpolar molecules Such atoms and molecules are essentially nonpolar, therefore, uncontaminated from other interactions arising due to the presence of functional groups or innate dipoles.Ī few examples of nonpolar atoms or molecules are- CH 4, H 2, I 2, hydrocarbon molecules (alkanes, alkenes, alkynes), and noble gas atoms (He, Ne, Ar).


So, to study the London Dispersion Forces in isolation- hydrocarbons, homonuclear molecules, or inert gases are used. Most molecules contain the London dispersion forces in combination with the other prominent forces (dipole, ionic, etc.). The London dispersion force is the weakest yet most significant Vander Waal forces' subtype, common to all atoms and molecules others are Debye and Keesom forces. The shifting electrons’ position in the outer nuclear region creates polarity, leading to an attractive universal force, the London dispersion force. However, interactions in uncharged, nonpolar molecules occur when the charges originate due to the constant fluctuations of the electrons. Understanding interactions are easier when the charges are obvious, like in ions or polar molecules. Therefore, most interactions are controlled by charges. Attraction occurs between opposite charges, and repulsion occurs when charges are the same. Atoms, molecules, or ions interact by attraction or repulsion.
