Multiple Choice
Why does the water molecule have polarity?
158
views
13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
Struggling with General Chemistry?
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 part of the molecule attracts most of the electrons and carries a partial negative charge?
A
The midpoint between the two hydrogen atoms
B
The hydrogen atoms
C
All atoms equally
D
The oxygen atom
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the atoms present in a water molecule: two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom.
Recall that oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen, meaning it has a stronger tendency to attract electrons toward itself.
Understand that in the H_2O molecule, the shared electrons in the covalent bonds are pulled closer to the oxygen atom due to its higher electronegativity.
Recognize that this uneven distribution of electron density causes the oxygen atom to carry a partial negative charge (δ-), while the hydrogen atoms carry partial positive charges (δ+).
Conclude that the oxygen atom attracts most of the electrons and carries the partial negative charge in the water molecule.
Related Videos
Related Practice
Molecular Polarity practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations