Atomic Interactions

Explore the forces between atoms at the molecular scale

The Lennard-Jones potential models the interaction between a pair of neutral atoms. The r⁻¹² term represents Pauli repulsion at short range, while the r⁻⁶ term represents van der Waals attraction at longer range. The equilibrium distance is where the force is zero, corresponding to the minimum potential energy. This model explains bonding, phase transitions, and molecular structure.