Lesson 9: Intermolecular Forces

In this lesson we will learn how to make some basic predictions about the physical properties of matter based ultimately on its atomic structure.

From the chemical formula of a compound, we will be able to determine its polarity; that is, to what extent one end of its molecule is negatively charged while the other end is positively charged. From a molecule's polarity, we will learn how to predict which of the various types of intermolecular forces it is capable of forming. We will also learn something about the relative strengths of the various kinds of forces.

Ultimately, by knowing what kinds of chemical bonds various compounds form, we will be able to compare their physical properties - properties like melting point, boiling point, and miscibility (how well they mix with one another).