Nonpolar Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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nonpolar
[ˌnɒnˈpoʊ.lər ]
Definition
chemistry
Not having a dipole; not having a separation of charge. Molecules that are nonpolar do not have a positive end and a negative end.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| nonpolar |
Usually used in scientific contexts, especially in chemistry and physics, to describe molecules or compounds that do not have a separation of electrical charge and thus do not have poles like water molecules do.
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| unpolar |
This word is not commonly used in English. 'Nonpolar' is the preferred term in scientific discussions to describe molecules without charge separation. |
| neutral |
Commonly used in both everyday language and scientific contexts to describe situations or objects that do not favor one side over the other, have no charge, or have no strong opinion or preference.
|
Examples of usage
- Water is a polar molecule, while carbon dioxide is nonpolar.
- Nonpolar substances do not mix well with polar substances.
- The lack of charge separation in nonpolar molecules makes them less reactive.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Molecules that are nonpolar have no positive or negative charges, which makes them avoid mixing with polar substances like water.
- Oils and fats are nonpolar substances; they can only dissolve in other nonpolar solvents like gasoline or paint thinners.
- In chemistry, nonpolar compounds can affect how reactions occur, especially in biological systems like cell membranes, which have nonpolar regions.
Environmental Science
- Nonpolar substances are significant in pollution studies because they can break down slowly and accumulate in organisms, leading to toxicity.
- Oil spills are a classic example of nonpolar pollutants that disrupt marine ecosystems, as they float on water and affect the animals and plants living there.
- Some plants produce nonpolar oils that help them repel water, keeping them from getting too wet and protecting them from pests.
Everyday Applications
- Many household products, like candles and certain cosmetics, are made from nonpolar substances, which help them maintain their structure and texture.
- Nonpolar solvents are frequently used in dry cleaning, as they can dissolve greasy stains without using water.
- Understanding nonpolar compounds can help in the formulation of better medicines, where certain drugs need to be nonpolar to cross cell membranes effectively.
History of Chemistry
- The concept of polarity in molecules was explored in the 19th century, changing our understanding of how different substances interact.
- Renowned chemist Marie Curie contributed to the understanding of molecular interactions, setting the stage for more complex studies of polarity.
- The development of the notion of nonpolar and polar compounds played a crucial role in the advancement of organic chemistry in the late 19th century.
Health and Biology
- Cell membranes consist of nonpolar lipid layers that prevent water-soluble substances from easily entering cells, thus controlling what gets in and out.
- Many vitamins, such as A, D, E, and K, are nonpolar and require lipids for absorption in the body, highlighting the importance of these substances in nutrition.
- Some nonpolar compounds are used in drug delivery systems, making it easier for medications to enter cells and exert their effects.
Origin of 'nonpolar'
The term 'nonpolar' originates from the combination of the prefix 'non-' meaning 'not' and the word 'polar'. It is commonly used in the field of chemistry to describe molecules that do not have a separation of charge. Understanding the concept of polarity is crucial in various scientific disciplines, especially in the study of chemical bonds and interactions.
See also: polar, polarisation, polarization, polarizing, unpolar.