polar molecule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "polar molecule" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in scientific contexts, particularly in chemistry, to describe a molecule that has a net dipole moment due to the presence of polar bonds. Example: "Water is a classic example of a polar molecule, as it has a partial positive charge on one side and a partial negative charge on the other."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

In the dipole induced-dipole interaction, the presence of the partial charges of the polar molecule causes a polarization, or dipole induced-dipoleectron dinteraction of the other molecule.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Other memory mechanisms including polarization induced by the polar molecule (such as H2O) adsorption/desorption and by the defect-related charge-trapping layer have also been studied [7 9].

Nanoscale Research Letters

When two molecules are equally small and can enter the pores, separation is based on the polarity (charge separation) of the molecule, the more polar molecule being preferentially adsorbed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The partial charges so formed behave just like those of a permanently polar molecule and interact favourably with their counterparts in the polar molecule that originally induced them.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The negative end of one polar molecule is attracted to the positive end of another polar molecule, which may be a molecule either of the same substance or of a different substance.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The second type of attractive interaction, the dipole induced-dipole interaction, also dipole induced-dipolece of a polar molecule.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Polar molecules pass through lipid membranes via specific transport systems.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Polar molecules do not mix easily with nonpolar ones, because polar molecules attract one another and nonpolar ones are unable to squeeze between them.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Molecules whose charges are arranged in this way are called polar molecules.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Thus, alkanes have relatively low boiling points compared with polar molecules of comparable molecular weight.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Aldehydes are polar molecules, and many reagents seek atoms with a deficiency of electrons.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the behavior of substances in solutions, remember that "polar molecules" tend to dissolve well in polar solvents like water but not in nonpolar solvents like oil. Use this concept to explain solubility or miscibility.

Common error

Avoid using "polar molecule" interchangeably with "charged molecule" or "ion". Polarity refers to an uneven distribution of charge, while charge indicates a net positive or negative electrical charge.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "polar molecule" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object within a sentence. It refers to a molecule that possesses an electric dipole moment due to the uneven sharing of electrons in chemical bonds. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in scientific writing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

75%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

News & Media

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "polar molecule" is a noun phrase used extensively within scientific and encyclopedic contexts to refer to molecules with uneven charge distributions. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's grammatically correct and frequently used. When writing about "polar molecules", remember that polarity impacts various properties like solubility and intermolecular forces. Avoid confusing polarity with net charge. Consider alternatives such as "dipole molecule" or "charged molecule" depending on the specific context. Overall, "polar molecule" is well-established terminology for describing fundamental characteristics of chemical compounds.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dipole molecule

Focuses on the presence of a dipole moment.

charged molecule

Emphasizes the presence of a net electrical charge.

molecule with dipole moment

Explicitly states the presence of a dipole moment in the molecule.

asymmetric molecule

Highlights the asymmetry in charge distribution leading to polarity.

molecule with partial charges

Specifically mentions the presence of partial positive and negative charges.

unevenly charged molecule

Stresses the unequal distribution of charge within the molecule.

heteropolar molecule

Synonym emphasizing the difference in electronegativity.

electrically polarized molecule

Describes molecule in terms of electrical polarization.

molecule exhibiting polarity

Focuses on the characteristic behavior of the molecule.

dipolar species

Refers to molecules with a dipole moment in general.

FAQs

How does the polarity of a molecule affect its properties?

The polarity of a molecule influences its intermolecular forces, solubility, boiling point, and interactions with other molecules. "Polar molecules" tend to have higher boiling points and are more soluble in polar solvents.

What is the difference between a polar and a nonpolar molecule?

A "polar molecule" has an uneven distribution of electron density, resulting in partial positive and negative charges. A nonpolar molecule has an even distribution of electron density, with no significant charges.

Why is water considered a polar molecule?

Water is a "polar molecule" because the oxygen atom is more electronegative than the hydrogen atoms, creating a dipole moment with a partial negative charge on the oxygen and partial positive charges on the hydrogens. This allows water to form hydrogen bonds.

What are some examples of polar molecules?

Common examples of "polar molecules" include water (H2O), ammonia (NH3), ethanol (C2H5OH), and sulfur dioxide (SO2). These molecules have asymmetrical charge distributions.