Question
2. One side of the water molecule has a positive charge, while the other side has a negative charge. What do the charges indicate about the molecule? a. Water is a polar molecule. c. Water is an ionic compound. b. Water is a nonpolar molecule. d. Water is an ion.
Answer
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Warren
Professional · Tutor for 6 years
Answer
a
Explanation
A water molecule (H2O) consists of two hydrogen atoms bonded to one oxygen atom. Since oxygen is more electronegative, it holds the electrons in bond more closely which means its side is slightly negatively charged, the hydrogens are slightly positively charged. This polarizes the water molecule, resulting in different charges on different ends of the molecule. Based on the given choices, a characteristic of a polar molecule perfectly describes this scenario where one side is positive and the other is negative. Therefore, "Water is a polar molecule" is the correct answer.