Multiple Choice
Which statement is true about the electrons in each polar bond of a water molecule?
11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Dipole Moment
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Why do the atoms of a water molecule have partial charges?
A
Because the water molecule is nonpolar, resulting in no charge separation.
B
Because the oxygen atom is more electronegative than the hydrogen atoms, creating a dipole moment.
C
Because the hydrogen atoms are more electronegative than the oxygen atom, creating a dipole moment.
D
Because the water molecule is symmetrical, leading to an even distribution of charge.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of electronegativity: Electronegativity is the ability of an atom to attract electrons towards itself in a chemical bond. In a water molecule (H₂O), oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen.
Identify the structure of a water molecule: A water molecule consists of one oxygen atom bonded to two hydrogen atoms. The oxygen atom has a higher electronegativity compared to the hydrogen atoms.
Explain the formation of partial charges: Due to the difference in electronegativity, the shared electrons in the O-H bonds are pulled closer to the oxygen atom, resulting in a partial negative charge (δ-) on the oxygen and partial positive charges (δ+) on the hydrogen atoms.
Discuss the concept of a dipole moment: The separation of charges within the molecule creates a dipole moment, which is a measure of the polarity of the molecule. The dipole moment points from the positive charges (hydrogens) to the negative charge (oxygen).
Clarify why water is polar: The asymmetrical shape of the water molecule, combined with the difference in electronegativity, results in an uneven distribution of charge, making water a polar molecule with partial charges on its atoms.
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