PHET Interactive Simulations: Atomic Interactions
Topics
Interaction Potential
Atomic Bonding
Van der Waals Force
Pauli Repulsion
Lennard-Jones Potential
Atomic Interactions
Description
Explore the interactions between various combinations of two atoms. Observe the total force acting on the atoms or the individual attractive and repulsive forces. Customize the attraction to see how changing the atomic diameter and interaction strength affects the interaction.
Sample Learning Goals
Explain how attractive and repulsive forces govern the interaction between atoms.
Describe the effect of potential well depth on atomic interactions.
Contrast the potential well of a bonded pair of atoms with unbonded pairs.
Describe bonds as dynamic and bond lengths as average distances.