The reason why tape sticks

In order for one object to adhere　to another, it is necessary to bring the objects close together at a molecular level. When two objects are brought close together, an electric force is said to act between the molecules of the respective objects, causing the objects to be attracted to each other. This force is called an “intermolecular force.” But normally, no matter how close two objects are brought together, they will not stick to each other. This is because solids cannot be brought together so close enough on a molecular level　that the molecules attract each other. For the intermolecular force to come into play, the two objects need to come within 3 to 5　Ångstroms (1 Ångstrom is a 10 billionth of a meter) of each other. This distance is no more than one-100 thousandth of the thickness of human hair.

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