Q:
What is the polarity of water?
A:
Quick Answer
Water is a polar molecule, and polarity occurs when the electrons in molecules are not spread evenly. This causes on end of the molecule to be negative, while the other is positive.
Continue Reading
Credit:
Stanislaw Pytel
Stone
Getty Images
Full Answer
A water molecule is formed by a combination of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. The hydrogen atom bonds to each oxygen atom with a pair of shared electrons. An oxygen atom also has two additional pairs of electrons. Overall, a water molecule has a neutral charge. However, because of the unequal arrangement of its electrons, the oxygen end is negative, and the hydrogen end is positive. Opposite charges are attracted to each other, so when there are lots of water molecules, they stick together.
Learn more about Atoms & MoleculesRelated Questions
-
Q:
What accounts for the cohesive and adhesive properties of water?
A: According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the polarity of water, due to hydrogen bonding, is responsible for its cohesive and adhesive properties. The posit... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How does water act as a solvent?
A: The small size and polarity of water molecules enable them to surround and dissolve solute species. Water molecules are partially negative on the oxygen en... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What happens to water molecules in the light-dependent reaction?
A: During the stage of photosynthesis referred to as the light-dependent reaction, 12 molecules of water begin the process of reacting with six molecules of c... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What can two water molecules react to form?
A: Two water molecules can react to form one hydronium ion and one hydroxide ion. This reaction is expressed through the chemical formula 2H2O(l) - H3O+(aq) +... Full Answer >Filed Under:
