What is a polar molecule?

A polar molecule is a molecule that has a slightly positive end and a slightly negative end due to an uneven distribution of electrons. This uneven distribution creates a separation of charge within the molecule, resulting in a dipole moment. Water is a common example of a polar molecule, with the oxygen atom being slightly negative and the hydrogen atoms being slightly positive.

A polar molecule is a molecule that has a net electrical charge, or dipole moment, due to an uneven distribution of electrons between the atoms in the molecule. Polar molecules have a separation of positive and negative charge, with one end of the molecule having a slightly positive charge and the other end having a slightly negative charge. This charge separation creates an electrostatic field around the molecule. Polarity can be caused by differences in electronegativity between the atoms in a molecule. Electronegativity is a measure of the ability of an atom to attract electrons to itself. If the atoms in a molecule have different electronegativities, then the electrons will be more strongly attracted to the more electronegative atom, creating a dipole moment. Polar molecules have a number of important properties. They are able to form hydrogen bonds with other polar molecules, and they can be attracted to charged surfaces or ions. Polar molecules are also more soluble in polar solvents than nonpolar molecules. Polar molecules are found in a wide variety of substances, including water, ammonia, and many organic compounds. They play an important role in many chemical and biological processes.

Show the polarity of water