Multiple Choice
What happens when a sodium atom becomes a sodium ion?
2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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Why does the oxygen atom in a water molecule have a partial negative charge?
A
Because oxygen has more protons than hydrogen, giving it a negative charge.
B
Because oxygen loses electrons to hydrogen, resulting in a negative charge.
C
Because oxygen donates electrons to hydrogen, creating a negative charge.
D
Because oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen, attracting shared electrons closer to itself.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of electronegativity: Electronegativity is the ability of an atom to attract shared electrons in a chemical bond. Oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen, meaning it has a stronger pull on the electrons they share in a bond.
Examine the structure of a water molecule: A water molecule (H₂O) consists of one oxygen atom covalently bonded to two hydrogen atoms. The electrons in these bonds are shared between the oxygen and hydrogen atoms.
Analyze the distribution of electrons: Due to oxygen's higher electronegativity, the shared electrons in the O-H bonds are pulled closer to the oxygen atom. This creates an uneven distribution of electron density.
Identify the partial charges: The uneven electron distribution results in a partial negative charge (δ-) on the oxygen atom and a partial positive charge (δ+) on each hydrogen atom. This is because the electrons spend more time closer to the oxygen atom.
Conclude with the concept of polarity: The partial charges on the oxygen and hydrogen atoms make the water molecule polar, with a negative pole near the oxygen and a positive pole near the hydrogens. This polarity is crucial for many of water's unique properties.
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