Multiple Choice
In a water molecule (H_2O), which part of the molecule attracts most of the electrons and carries a partial negative charge?
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13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
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Which of the following characteristics primarily determine whether a molecule is polar?
A
The color of the molecule
B
The presence of polar bonds and the molecular geometry
C
The total number of atoms in the molecule
D
The atomic mass of the central atom
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that molecular polarity depends on two main factors: the presence of polar bonds and the overall shape (molecular geometry) of the molecule.
Recall that a polar bond occurs when there is a difference in electronegativity between two bonded atoms, causing an uneven distribution of electron density.
Recognize that even if a molecule has polar bonds, the molecular geometry can cause these bond dipoles to cancel out, resulting in a nonpolar molecule.
Eliminate options that do not affect polarity, such as the color of the molecule, the total number of atoms, or the atomic mass of the central atom, since these do not influence the distribution of electron density or molecular shape.
Conclude that the correct characteristics determining molecular polarity are the presence of polar bonds combined with the molecular geometry, which together dictate the net dipole moment of the molecule.
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