Interaction through space of two non-polar groups.
The relatively weak forces of attraction between molecules that contribute to intermolecular bonding (i.e., binding-together two or more adjacent molecules). Historically, it was thought that van der Waals forces were always weaker than the hydrogen bond forces responsible for intramolecular bonding. However, in 1995, Dr. Alfred French discovered that van der Waals forces are primarily responsible for holding together a mass of cellulose molecules, with hydrogen bonding playing a lesser role.
The definite but weak forces of attraction between the nuclei of atoms of compounds. These forces do not result from ionic attraction, hydrogen bonding, or sharing of electrons, but rather from the motion of electrons in atoms and molecules.