The binding of ligands to proteins occurs mostly through weak non-covalent interactions, namely hydrophobic interaction, van der Waals forces, and hydrogen bonding.
Adsorption: Capability of a solid substance (adsorbent) to attract to its surface molecules of a gas or solution (adsorbate) with which it is in contact. Physical adsorption depends on van der Waals forces of attraction between molecules and resembles condensation of liquids.
The opposing electrostatic and van der Waals forces are typically balanced for film thicknesses in the range of 10-1000 nm.
Physical adsorption depends on van der Waals forces of attraction between molecules and resembles condensation of liquids.