Basic Concepts
- Molecular Dimensions: These refer to the overall size and shape of molecules. Understanding them helps us visualize how molecules fit together and interact.
- Bond Lengths: This is the distance between the centers of two atoms that are chemically bonded together. It's a fundamental property that influences a molecule's stability and reactivity.
- Atomic Radii: The size of an atom, typically measured from the nucleus to the outermost electron shell. It helps predict how atoms will bond and pack together.
- Van der Waals Forces: These are weak, short-range attractive forces between uncharged atoms or molecules. They play a role in how molecules interact without forming chemical bonds.
- Molecular Structure: This describes the three-dimensional arrangement of atoms within a molecule. It's key to understanding a molecule's function, especially in biological systems.