Multiple Choice
Which characteristics make water a polar molecule?
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13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
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What does it mean that water is a polar molecule?
A
Water molecules are linear and symmetrical.
B
Water is nonpolar because it has no net dipole moment.
C
Water has an uneven distribution of electrical charge, with a partial positive charge on the hydrogen atoms and a partial negative charge on the oxygen atom.
D
Water has an equal distribution of electrical charge.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of polarity: A polar molecule has an uneven distribution of electrical charge, resulting in a molecule with a positive end and a negative end.
Examine the structure of a water molecule: Water (H₂O) consists of two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom.
Consider the electronegativity of atoms: Oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen, meaning it attracts the shared electrons more strongly.
Identify the partial charges: Due to the difference in electronegativity, the oxygen atom acquires a partial negative charge (δ-) and the hydrogen atoms acquire partial positive charges (δ+).
Visualize the molecular geometry: Water has a bent shape, which means the dipoles do not cancel out, resulting in a net dipole moment and making water a polar molecule.
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