What does it mean to be a polar molecule?

Pronunciation

(/no definition provided/) 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A molecule that has a permanent electric dipole moment, resulting in partial positive and negative charges.

Examples

• Water (H2O) is a polar molecule, with oxygen having a slightly negative charge and hydrogen having a slightly positive charge.
• Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a non-polar molecule, having no permanent electric dipole moment.

Synonyms

• Dipolar
• Bipolar

Antonyms

• Non-polar
• Aipole

Etymology

The term “polar” comes from the Greek word “polos”, meaning “axis” or “pole”. In chemistry, the term refers to the molecule’s dipole moment, resulting from the unequal sharing of electrons between atoms.

Usage Notes

In chemistry, the term “polar” is used to describe molecules that have a permanent electric dipole moment. This can be important in understanding chemical properties and reactions.

Cultural References

Polar molecules are not commonly referenced in popular culture, but they are an important concept in scientific literature and educational materials.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

None.

Related Words or Phrases

Non-polar, dipolar, bipolar, ipole

Collocations

Polar molecule + solvent

Frequency of Use

Polar molecules are commonly used in scientific contexts, such as in chemistry and biology classes, and in research papers.

Common Misspellings

Polarical, Polaric, Polari