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2 Dec 2025

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How Intermolecular Forces Affect Boiling Points: Easy Guide

user profile picture

Hannah @hannah_studys1012

Intermolecular forces fundamentally shape molecular behavior and boiling points through various attractive forces between molecules.

  • London forcesexist... Show more

# Intermolecular forces =

London forces

F

e

8+
e

Fe

e

electrostatic
attraction

8-

Fe

-uneven distribution of electrons at a moment

Boiling Point Comparisons and Molecular Forces

This page delves into practical applications of intermolecular forces through specific molecular examples and their boiling point relationships.

Example Comparing CHCl₃ bp=61.2°Cbp=61.2°C with CCl₄ bp=76.8°Cbp=76.8°C demonstrates how different molecular forces affect boiling points.

Highlight CCl₄ has a higher boiling point despite lacking polarity because its stronger London forces outweigh the permanent dipole-dipole forces present in CHCl₃.

Definition Boiling point differences reflect the relative strengths of intermolecular forces, with stronger forces requiring more energy to overcome.

The page concludes by emphasizing how the combination of different intermolecular forces determines overall molecular properties and behavior.

# Intermolecular forces =

London forces

F

e

8+
e

Fe

e

electrostatic
attraction

8-

Fe

-uneven distribution of electrons at a moment

Understanding London Forces and Molecular Interactions

This page explores the fundamental concepts of intermolecular forces and their various manifestations. The content focuses on three main types of molecular interactions and their effects on physical properties.

Definition London forces are universal intermolecular forces present between all molecules, resulting from temporary electron distribution fluctuations.

Highlight Every molecule exhibits London forces, which form the basis for molecular attractions.

Example When electrons create an instantaneous dipole in one molecule, it induces a dipole in nearby molecules, leading to attraction.

Vocabulary Permanent dipole-dipole interactions occur specifically between polar molecules due to uneven electron distribution.

Definition Hydrogen bonding represents a special type of permanent dipole-dipole interaction, occurring when hydrogen is attached to highly electronegative atoms (O, N, or F) with lone electron pairs.

The relationship between these forces and boiling points is particularly significant, with hydrogen bonding typically resulting in higher boiling points due to stronger intermolecular attractions.

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This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

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Elisha

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This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

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Android user

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Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Chemistry

302

2 Dec 2025

2 pages

How Intermolecular Forces Affect Boiling Points: Easy Guide

user profile picture

Hannah

@hannah_studys1012

Intermolecular forces fundamentally shape molecular behavior and boiling points through various attractive forces between molecules.

  • London forces exist universally between all molecules, forming the foundation of intermolecular interactions
  • Hydrogen bonding polarity effectscreate the strongest intermolecular attractions, particularly in molecules... Show more

# Intermolecular forces =

London forces

F

e

8+
e

Fe

e

electrostatic
attraction

8-

Fe

-uneven distribution of electrons at a moment

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

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Boiling Point Comparisons and Molecular Forces

This page delves into practical applications of intermolecular forces through specific molecular examples and their boiling point relationships.

Example: Comparing CHCl₃ bp=61.2°Cbp=61.2°C with CCl₄ bp=76.8°Cbp=76.8°C demonstrates how different molecular forces affect boiling points.

Highlight: CCl₄ has a higher boiling point despite lacking polarity because its stronger London forces outweigh the permanent dipole-dipole forces present in CHCl₃.

Definition: Boiling point differences reflect the relative strengths of intermolecular forces, with stronger forces requiring more energy to overcome.

The page concludes by emphasizing how the combination of different intermolecular forces determines overall molecular properties and behavior.

# Intermolecular forces =

London forces

F

e

8+
e

Fe

e

electrostatic
attraction

8-

Fe

-uneven distribution of electrons at a moment

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Understanding London Forces and Molecular Interactions

This page explores the fundamental concepts of intermolecular forces and their various manifestations. The content focuses on three main types of molecular interactions and their effects on physical properties.

Definition: London forces are universal intermolecular forces present between all molecules, resulting from temporary electron distribution fluctuations.

Highlight: Every molecule exhibits London forces, which form the basis for molecular attractions.

Example: When electrons create an instantaneous dipole in one molecule, it induces a dipole in nearby molecules, leading to attraction.

Vocabulary: Permanent dipole-dipole interactions occur specifically between polar molecules due to uneven electron distribution.

Definition: Hydrogen bonding represents a special type of permanent dipole-dipole interaction, occurring when hydrogen is attached to highly electronegative atoms (O, N, or F) with lone electron pairs.

The relationship between these forces and boiling points is particularly significant, with hydrogen bonding typically resulting in higher boiling points due to stronger intermolecular attractions.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

4

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Similar content

Understanding London Dispersion Forces

Explore the fundamentals of London Dispersion Forces (LDFs), the weakest type of intermolecular forces. This summary covers the formation of temporary dipoles, the role of electron movement, and how these forces affect the properties of non-polar molecules, including their low melting and boiling points. Ideal for students studying higher chemistry concepts.

ChemistryChemistry
S5

Redox Reactions & Periodicity

Explore key concepts in redox reactions, including oxidation and reduction processes, half-equations, and the role of oxidizing and reducing agents. Understand periodic trends such as electronegativity, ionization energy, and molecular structure. This summary covers essential topics for higher chemistry, focusing on the periodic table and intermolecular forces.

ChemistryChemistry
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Understanding Intermolecular Forces

Explore the key types of intermolecular forces, including London dispersion forces, dipole-dipole interactions, and hydrogen bonding. This summary highlights their mechanisms, strengths, and effects on physical properties like boiling points, tailored for AQA A-level Chemistry students.

ChemistryChemistry
12

Types of Intermolecular Forces

Explore the key types of intermolecular forces including London Dispersion Forces, Permanent Dipole-Permanent Dipole Interactions, and Hydrogen Bonding. This summary provides a clear understanding of their characteristics, strengths, and examples, essential for Higher Chemistry studies.

ChemistryChemistry
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Bonding & Intermolecular Forces

Comprehensive A Level Chemistry summary covering key concepts of bonding types, molecular shapes, electronegativity, and intermolecular forces. Understand ionic, covalent, and dative bonds, along with their properties and effects on molecular behavior. Ideal for exam preparation and revision.

ChemistryChemistry
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BTEC Applied Science Unit 1 Overview

Comprehensive resource for Year 12 students pursuing a Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science. This booklet covers essential topics including cell structure, chemical properties, and wave theory, providing clear explanations and key concepts to aid in your studies and exam preparation.

ChemistryChemistry
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Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user