A water molecule is polar because
A) the oxygen atom is a negative ion and the hydrogen atoms are positive ions.
B) both the oxygen and the hydrogens are negatively charged.
C) oxygen has a magnetic charge.
D) the electrons of the hydrogen atoms are pulled to the oxygen atom.
E) hydrogen has a stronger pull on the electrons than does oxygen.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The oxygen atom in a water molecule is more electronegative (has a stronger pull on electrons) than the hydrogen atoms. This causes the electrons in the covalent bonds to be pulled closer to the oxygen atom, resulting in a partial negative charge on the oxygen and a partial positive charge on the hydrogens. This separation of charge makes water a polar molecule. Choice A is incorrect because the atoms in a water molecule do not become ions. Choice B is incorrect because the atoms in a water molecule are not negatively charged. Choice C is incorrect because oxygen does not have a magnetic charge. Choice E is incorrect because oxygen, not hydrogen, has a stronger electronegativity.

A Water Molecule Is Polar Because