Which ion-dipole interaction results in the larger (more negative)hydration energy?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In diagram (a), the positive charge of the water molecule is closer to the negative end of the ion, resulting in a stronger ion-dipole interaction and a larger hydration energy. In contrast, in diagrams (b) and (c), the positive charge of the water molecule is further away from the negative end of the ion, resulting in weaker interactions and smaller hydration energies. In diagram (d), the ion-dipole interaction is intermediate between (a) and (b/c), so it would have a hydration energy between those two extremes.

Which Ion-Dipole Interaction Results in the Larger (More Negative)hydration Energy