Multiple Choice
Which intermolecular forces are present in a liquid sample of methanol (CH3OH)?
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13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Intermolecular Forces
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The partial charges across one molecule of water occur because of:
A
the symmetrical arrangement of atoms in the molecule
B
the difference in electronegativity between hydrogen and oxygen atoms
C
the presence of ionic bonds within the molecule
D
the equal sharing of electrons between all atoms
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that partial charges in a molecule arise due to differences in how electrons are shared between atoms.
Recall that electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract electrons in a bond.
Recognize that in a water molecule (H\_2O), oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen, causing electrons to be pulled closer to oxygen.
This unequal sharing of electrons creates a dipole moment, with a partial negative charge (\delta-) on oxygen and partial positive charges (\delta+) on the hydrogens.
Note that the molecule's shape is bent (not symmetrical), which also contributes to the overall polarity, but the fundamental cause of partial charges is the difference in electronegativity.
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