Multiple Choice
Is carbon disulfide (CS_2) a polar molecule?
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13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
In a water molecule (H_2O), which side of the molecule is more positive?
A
The side with the hydrogen atoms
B
Neither side is positive
C
Both sides are equally positive
D
The side with the oxygen atom
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the structure of a water molecule (H_2O): it consists of one oxygen atom bonded to two hydrogen atoms.
Recall the concept of electronegativity: oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen, meaning it attracts shared electrons more strongly.
Because oxygen pulls electrons closer, the oxygen side of the molecule becomes partially negative (δ-), while the hydrogen side becomes partially positive (δ+).
This creates a polar molecule with a dipole moment pointing from the hydrogen atoms toward the oxygen atom.
Therefore, the side with the hydrogen atoms is more positive due to the electron distribution caused by the difference in electronegativity.
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