Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about the polarity of a molecule is false?
13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
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Which term describes molecules that attract water or dissolve in it because of their polar nature?
A
Amphipathic
B
Hydrophobic
C
Hydrophilic
D
Nonpolar
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the meaning of the term 'polar' in chemistry: Polar molecules have regions with partial positive and negative charges due to differences in electronegativity between atoms, which allows them to interact with water molecules.
Recall that water is a polar solvent, so molecules that are attracted to water or dissolve in it typically have polar characteristics.
Review the definitions of the given terms: 'Amphipathic' refers to molecules with both polar (hydrophilic) and nonpolar (hydrophobic) parts; 'Hydrophobic' means water-repelling or nonpolar; 'Hydrophilic' means water-attracting or polar; 'Nonpolar' means lacking significant charge separation.
Identify that molecules described as attracting water or dissolving in it because of their polar nature are called 'Hydrophilic' because 'hydro' means water and 'philic' means loving or attracted to.
Conclude that the correct term for molecules that attract water due to their polarity is 'Hydrophilic'.
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