What is Physical Chemistry and How Important Is It?

In the dating world, physical chemistry is often the most-coveted aspect of a relationship. So many modern daters list it as a non-negotiable that you'd be hard-pressed to find someone who says they aren't looking for it. But many of us don't know what we're looking for beyond "that spark." So, before we spend a lot of time chasing this elusive quality of physical chemistry, let's talk about what it is.

What is Physical Chemistry in Relationships?

Physical chemistry is a crucial aspect of relationships: it plays a major role in determining the level of attraction and compatibility between two individuals. That is often the starting point for any relationship, as it is the initial spark that can lead to deeper connections and bonds. It is important for individuals to be attracted to each other in order for the relationship to be successful.

Physical chemistry in relationships is essential in the attraction and compatibility between two individuals that you primarily feel in your body. It is a combination of physical and emotional attraction. Signs of chemistry include the feeling of being drawn or pulled to someone, physically wanting to be near them, and can feel like excitement or nervousness when you're around the person or thinking about the person. Conversely, it can also feel like relaxation, like you don't have to think about what you're going to say or do next when you're around the other person. What you want to watch out for, though, is if any of these experiences are one-sided.

How Do You Find Physical Chemistry?

It's imperative that physical chemistry is mutual for a relationship to last. If it's one-sided, it's going to feel like a chase and it will be unsustainable. And, contrary to the recent pushback in the dating world, relationships should be built on mutual attraction, or they won't last, either. But even one-sided physical chemistry is elusive enough; how can someone hope to find someone with whom the physical attraction is mutual?

Iris Dating, a dating app that is focused on helping users find their perfect match prioritizes mutual attraction when matching users. The app uses a unique algorithm that takes into account a variety of factors to match users with individuals to whom they are most likely to be attracted. That way, you are much more likely to have physical chemistry when you meet in person than with matches you might meet on other apps.

While physical chemistry alone isn't sufficient to build a relationship, it is impossible to build a long-term relationship without it. Emotional attraction is also necessary, but the physical part is what so often sparks emotional attraction in the first place. Ultimately, they are inseparable as emotions have physical sensations that contribute to the chemistry you have (or not) with someone. Both emotional and physical attraction can grow, but there has to be a spark to start from.