molecules are attracted to one another by van der waals forces. how do van der waals forces compare with ionic and covalent bonds

Answer: Ionic bond: It is the bond formed by the complete transfer of electron from one atom to an other atom. Covalent bond: It is the bond formed by the mutual sharing of the electrons. Van der waal: These are weak interactions between one molecules with other polar or non polar molecules to hold to each other by weak force of attraction. Explanation: Similarities between van der waal, ionic bonds and covalent bonds: All of them are a type of inter-molecular forces, in which ionic bonds are stronger than covalent bond and van der walls forces. And covalent bonds are stronger than van der wall forces. Difference between van der waal and ionic bonds: Ionic bonds are formed by complete transfer of electrons from one atom to an other atom. Covalent bond are formed by sharing of electrons while in van der waal, there is a slight attraction when oppositely charged molecules come close to each others.

Result: Van der wall forces are weakest among ionic and covalent bonds.