Polarity: meaning, definitions and examples

scientific concept

Polarity refers to the separation of electric charges leading to a molecular or atomic structure that has distinct positive and negative ends. In chemistry, it describes how certain molecules, like water, exhibit partial positive and negative charges due to differences in electronegativity among atoms. This property is crucial for understanding interactions between different substances, as polar molecules tend to interact well with other polar substances, while nonpolar molecules do not. Polarity is also significant in fields such as physics and biology, influencing phenomena ranging from chemical reactions to cell membrane functions.

charge separation, dichotomy, directionality

Examples of usage

• Water molecules demonstrate polarity, making them excellent solvents.

• The polarity of a molecule can affect its boiling point.

• Understanding the polarity of compounds is essential in organic chemistry.

• Polarity influences how substances mix together.