Multiple Choice
Which of the following best explains why a water molecule (H_2O) is polar?
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13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
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In an aqueous solution, which end of the water molecule is attracted to a sodium ion (Na^+)?
A
The oxygen atom end
B
Both ends equally
C
Neither end
D
The hydrogen atom end
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall the molecular structure of a water molecule (H\_2O), which has a bent shape with an oxygen atom bonded to two hydrogen atoms.
Understand that water is a polar molecule: the oxygen atom has a partial negative charge (\delta^-), and the hydrogen atoms have partial positive charges (\delta^+).
Recognize that sodium ion (Na^+) is a positively charged ion (cation).
Apply the principle that opposite charges attract: the negatively charged end of the water molecule will be attracted to the positively charged sodium ion.
Conclude that the oxygen atom end of the water molecule, which carries the partial negative charge, is attracted to the sodium ion (Na^+).
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