Chemistry
Chemistry
Problem
In a correct particulate-level diagram of an aqueous solution that contains dissolved Cl⁻ ions, how should individual water molecules be oriented relative to a given Cl⁻ ion to depict the predominant ion–dipole interaction? a) The oxygen atom of each water molecule points toward the ion. b) Water molecules are randomly oriented because the ion does not interact specifically with water. c) The two hydrogen atoms of each water molecule point toward the ion. d) Both hydrogen atoms point away from the ion to reduce repulsion between the oxygen atom and the ion.Intuitive explanation
The key is recognizing that water is a polar molecule with a partial positive charge on hydrogen and partial negative on oxygen. Since is negatively charged, it attracts the positive end of water molecules—so the hydrogen atoms of nearby water molecules should point toward the chloride ion. This orientation shows how the dipole of water aligns with the electric field created by the ion, which is the essence of an ion–dipole interaction.
Intuitive explanation
The key is recognizing that water is a polar molecule with a partial positive charge on hydrogen and partial negative on oxygen. Since is negatively charged, it attracts the positive end of water molecules—so the hydrogen atoms of nearby water molecules should point toward the chloride ion. This orientation shows how the dipole of water aligns with the electric field created by the ion, which is the essence of an ion–dipole interaction.