Multiple Choice
Why does the presence of lone pair electrons on the oxygen atom contribute to the polarity of a water (H_2O) molecule?
13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
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Which of the following best describes what it means for a molecule to be polar?
A
The molecule has an uneven distribution of electron density, resulting in a net dipole moment.
B
The molecule is composed entirely of identical atoms.
C
The molecule has a symmetrical shape that cancels out all dipoles.
D
The molecule contains only nonpolar covalent bonds.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that polarity in a molecule arises from differences in electronegativity between atoms, which causes an uneven distribution of electron density.
Recognize that when electron density is unevenly distributed, it creates partial positive and negative charges within the molecule, leading to dipole moments.
Know that the overall polarity of a molecule depends on both the polarity of individual bonds and the molecular geometry, which determines if dipole moments cancel out or add up.
Recall that a molecule with a symmetrical shape often has dipole moments that cancel each other, resulting in a nonpolar molecule despite having polar bonds.
Conclude that a polar molecule is best described as one having an uneven distribution of electron density, resulting in a net dipole moment.
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