van der Waals forces

plural noun

ˈvan-dər-ˌwȯlz-  ˈvän-dər-ˌvälz- 

: the relatively weak attractive forces that act on neutral atoms and molecules and that arise because of the electric polarization induced in each of the particles by the presence of other particles

Examples of van der Waals forces in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The chemical bonding that results rearranges the electrons, creating an electrodynamic attraction known as van der Waals forces. —Discover Magazine, 17 Oct. 2016

The Gecko Gripper uses the same adhesive system for gripping as the feet of a gecko, with millions of fine fibers that adhere to the surface of the workpiece and generate strong van der Waals forces. —IEEE Spectrum, 8 Feb. 2019

Their clinging power resides in microscopic, hair-like structures on their toes that employ what are called van der Waals forces – a weak force that draws molecules together. —Carl Engelking, Discover Magazine, 27 Apr. 2015

Word History

Etymology

after Johannes Diderik van der Waals †1923 Dutch physicist, who postulated the existence of such a force

First Known Use

1939, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

van der Waals forces

noun plural

ˈvan-dər-ˌwȯlz- 

: the relatively weak attractive forces that are operative between neutral atoms and molecules and that arise because of the electric polarization induced in each of the particles by the presence of other particles