Multiple Choice
Which factor best explains the partial negative charge on the oxygen atom in a water (H_2O) molecule?
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13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
Multiple Choice
Which phrase best describes the molecular polarity and charge distribution in an HCl molecule?
A
The molecule is nonpolar, with a partial negative charge on the Cl atom.
B
The molecule is nonpolar, with an even charge distribution between H and Cl.
C
The molecule is polar, with a partial negative charge on the Cl atom and a partial positive charge on the H atom.
D
The molecule is polar, with a partial negative charge on the H atom and a partial positive charge on the Cl atom.
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the concept of molecular polarity. A molecule is polar if it has a significant difference in electronegativity between its atoms, causing an uneven distribution of electron density and resulting in partial charges.
Step 2: Identify the electronegativities of hydrogen (H) and chlorine (Cl). Chlorine is more electronegative than hydrogen, meaning it attracts electrons more strongly.
Step 3: Determine the direction of electron density shift. Since Cl is more electronegative, the shared electrons in the H–Cl bond will be pulled closer to Cl, creating a partial negative charge (δ-) on Cl and a partial positive charge (δ+) on H.
Step 4: Conclude the polarity of the molecule. Because of this uneven charge distribution, the HCl molecule is polar, with a dipole moment pointing from H (δ+) to Cl (δ-).
Step 5: Match this understanding to the correct phrase: The molecule is polar, with a partial negative charge on the Cl atom and a partial positive charge on the H atom.
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