1. What is Distance Between Two Atoms of Different Molecules?

The distance between two atoms of different molecules refers to the separation between the centers of two non-bonded atoms belonging to different molecular entities. This distance is typically measured from the center of one atom's nucleus to the center of the other atom's nucleus.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( d_m \) — Distance between two molecules (m)
• \( r_{\text{vander-waal}} \) — Vander Waal radius of the atom (m)

Explanation: The Vander Waal radius represents half the distance of closest approach between two non-bonded atoms of the same element. Doubling this value gives the minimum distance between the centers of two atoms from different molecules.

3. Importance of Intermolecular Distance Calculation

Details: Calculating the distance between atoms of different molecules is crucial for understanding molecular interactions, predicting molecular packing in solids, studying surface phenomena, and analyzing intermolecular forces in various chemical and biological systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the Vander Waal radius in meters. The value must be a positive number greater than zero. Common Vander Waal radii range from approximately 1.2 × 10⁻¹⁰ m (hydrogen) to 2.2 × 10⁻¹⁰ m (carbon).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is Vander Waal radius?
A: Vander Waal radius is half the distance between the closest approach of two non-bonded atoms of a given element. It represents the effective size of an atom when it's not chemically bonded.

Q2: How does this differ from covalent radius?
A: Covalent radius is half the distance between two bonded atoms, while Vander Waal radius applies to non-bonded atoms and is typically larger than covalent radius.

Q3: Why multiply by 2?
A: Since Vander Waal radius represents half the distance between two non-bonded atoms, multiplying by 2 gives the full distance between their centers.

Q4: Are Vander Waal radii constant for all elements?
A: No, Vander Waal radii vary by element and are typically larger for atoms with more electron shells. They are empirical values determined from crystal structures.

Q5: What are typical Vander Waal radius values?
A: Hydrogen: ~1.2 × 10⁻¹⁰ m, Carbon: ~1.7 × 10⁻¹⁰ m, Oxygen: ~1.52 × 10⁻¹⁰ m, Nitrogen: ~1.55 × 10⁻¹⁰ m. These values may vary slightly depending on the source.