Question
The - mathrm(OH) groups in the silica-gel are most attracted to molecules that are? polar non-polar dipolar
Answer
3.5
(183 Votes)
Clara
Elite · Tutor for 8 years
Answer
polar
Explanation
The question pertains to the chemistry of silica gel and its interaction with different types of molecules. Silica gel, chemically known as silicon dioxide (SiO2), possesses -OH (hydroxyl) groups on its surface. These hydroxyl groups are polar due to the difference in electronegativity between oxygen and hydrogen atoms, which creates a partial negative charge on the oxygen and a partial positive charge on the hydrogen. This polarity allows silica gel to form hydrogen bonds with other polar molecules. In contrast, nonpolar molecules lack this charge disparity and thus do not interact strongly with the -OH groups. Dipolar molecules, similar to polar molecules, have a separation of charge but are distinct in their arrangement, often resulting in a molecule with two poles. The term "unipotar" is not a standard term in chemistry. The most accurate answer is that the -OH groups in silica gel are most attracted to polar molecules, due to their ability to form hydrogen bonds and electrostatic attractions with the polar hydroxyl groups.