Polarization, donor-acceptor interactions, and covalent contributions in weak interactions: a clarification

Area of Science:

• Quantum chemistry
• Chemical bonding theory

Background:

• Weak interactions are crucial in molecular systems.
• Existing models for charge transfer and covalent bonding lack a unified framework.

Purpose of the Study:

• To unify concepts of polarization, charge transfer, and covalent bonding.
• To establish polarization as the fundamental descriptor for weak interactions.

Main Methods:

• Discussion of polarization (induction) as a unifying concept.
• Incorporation of Feynman description for dispersion forces.
• Model calculations to support theoretical framework.

Main Results:

• Polarization, charge transfer, and covalent bonding are shown as manifestations of the same phenomenon.
• Polarization is identified as the sole measurable and uniquely defined quantity among the three.
• Dispersion forces are conceptualized as a form of polarization.

Conclusions:

• A consistent theoretical framework for weak interactions based on polarization is proposed.
• This approach offers a more unified and measurable understanding of chemical bonding.
• The findings provide a new perspective on intermolecular forces.