Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the polarity of the molecule NH_3 (ammonia)?
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13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
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How is the miscibility of a liquid with water related to the liquid's polarity?
A
Liquids that are nonpolar are always miscible with water.
B
The polarity of a liquid does not affect its miscibility with water.
C
Only nonpolar liquids are miscible with water.
D
Liquids that are polar tend to be miscible with water because water is also polar.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of polarity: Polarity in molecules arises from the uneven distribution of electron density, leading to partial positive and negative charges within the molecule.
Recognize that water is a polar molecule due to its bent shape and the difference in electronegativity between hydrogen and oxygen atoms, which creates a dipole moment.
Recall the principle 'like dissolves like,' which means polar solvents tend to dissolve polar solutes, and nonpolar solvents tend to dissolve nonpolar solutes.
Apply this principle to miscibility: liquids that are polar tend to mix well with water because their similar polarities allow for favorable intermolecular interactions such as hydrogen bonding or dipole-dipole interactions.
Conclude that nonpolar liquids are generally not miscible with water because their lack of polarity prevents them from interacting effectively with water molecules, leading to phase separation.
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