What must exist between molecules or atoms for condensation and freezing to occur at low temperatures?

For condensation and freezing to occur at low temperatures, some attractive forces must exist between molecules or atoms. When temperature decreases, the kinetic energy of molecules reduces, making it easier for these attractive forces to take effect.

In the case of condensation, as a gas cools, molecules lose kinetic energy, which allows intermolecular forces (like van der Waals forces or hydrogen bonds) to pull the gas molecules closer together, transitioning them into a liquid state. Similarly, during freezing, as the temperature drops further, even more kinetic energy is lost, and the attractive forces become strong enough to hold the molecules in a fixed position, resulting in the formation of a solid.

This process highlights the critical role of intermolecular attractions in phase changes, especially at low temperatures where these forces can overcome kinetic energy and lead to a change in the state of matter.