Does a water molecule become more or less polar when bound to a metal ion, such as ? Why? (Hint: How might the electrons of the O-H covalent bonds in water feel about the highly charged aluminum ion?)
A) Less polar. Aluminum ion is so highly polar that it attracts the electrons in a water molecule to itself and away from the oxygen atom in water, causing water to lose polar character.
B) More polar. The electrons in the O-H bond are drawn even closer to the oxygen (and away from the hydrogen) as they are drawn towards the positive charge of the aluminum ion.
C) Neither. Although polarity may increase as a water molecule approaches an aluminum ion, once the water molecule becomes bound to the metal ion its polarity reverts to its original status.
D) Both. As a first water molecule approaches , there is an increase in water's polarity. However, the bond becomes less polar when the aluminum ion has captured all six water molecules to form O 3+.
Question 2
Water coming out of volcanic sea vents at the bottom of the ocean can reach temperatures in excess of 300C without boiling. How is this possible?
A) The heat is immediately transferred to the surrounding, very cold water.
B) The heat is immediately transferred to the surrounding volcanic rock.
C) The water and water vapor reach equilibrium under the extreme pressure of the ocean.
D) The extreme pressure exerted by the miles of ocean water above prevent the formation of any bubbles of water vapor.
Water's Covalent Bonds Are Polar
Attraction between water molecules showing polar covalent bonding.
Oil molecules cling to metal surfaces but easily slide against each other.
The chemical structure of the water molecule facilitates life