Chapter 18, Problem 15RQ

To determine

The meaning of a term dipole.

Answer to Problem 15RQ

The charge separation in a molecule due to slight electronegativity difference is called as a dipole.

Explanation of Solution

The atoms of the same elements or the atoms of elements having very less electronegativity difference tend to share the electrons for the bond formation. They undergo a mutual sharing of electron between them and form a typical bond called a covalent bond. Thus a covalent bond is a type of bond where atoms are held together by the mutual attraction of a shared pair of electrons.

The mutual sharing of electrons between the atoms of a slight electronegativity difference creates a dipole. The dipole is a phenomenon where the atoms with slight higher electronegativity tend to attract electrons more towards itself and gain a partial negative charge while the other element present with slight lesser electronegativity gains a partial positive charge. This charge separation of a molecule is called a dipole.

Conclusion:

Therefore, a charge separation in a molecule due to slight electronegativity difference is called as a dipole