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Multiple Choice
Which statement correctly describes the distribution of electrons in a water molecule?
A
The electrons are more concentrated around the hydrogen atoms, making them partially negative.
B
The electrons are equally shared, resulting in a nonpolar molecule.
C
The electrons are more concentrated around the oxygen atom, making it partially negative.
D
The electrons are evenly distributed between the hydrogen and oxygen atoms.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of electronegativity: Electronegativity is the ability of an atom to attract electrons towards itself in a chemical bond. Oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen.
Analyze the structure of a water molecule: A water molecule (H₂O) consists of one oxygen atom bonded to two hydrogen atoms.
Consider 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.
Determine the partial charges: The unequal sharing of electrons results in a partial negative charge (δ-) on the oxygen atom and a partial positive charge (δ+) on the hydrogen atoms.
Conclude the polarity of the molecule: The uneven distribution of electrons makes the water molecule polar, with a net dipole moment pointing towards the oxygen atom.