Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a cause of polarity in water molecules?
13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
Molecular Polarity
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Is water a polar molecule, and if so, what causes its polarity?
A
Yes, because water has a symmetrical shape and equal electronegativity between hydrogen and oxygen.
B
No, because water is a nonpolar molecule with a symmetrical shape.
C
Yes, because of the bent shape and difference in electronegativity between hydrogen and oxygen.
D
No, because water has a linear shape and equal electronegativity between hydrogen and oxygen.
Verified step by step guidance1
Begin by understanding the concept of molecular polarity. A molecule is polar if it has a net dipole moment, which occurs due to the uneven distribution of electron density.
Examine the structure of a water molecule (H₂O). Water has a bent shape, which is crucial for its polarity. The angle between the hydrogen atoms is approximately 104.5 degrees.
Consider the electronegativity of the atoms involved. Oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen, meaning it attracts the shared electrons in the covalent bonds more strongly.
Due to the difference in electronegativity, the electrons are pulled closer to the oxygen atom, creating a partial negative charge on the oxygen and a partial positive charge on the hydrogen atoms.
The combination of the bent shape and the difference in electronegativity results in a net dipole moment, making water a polar molecule.
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