Polarity & Electronegativity

Polarity in molecules arises from the unequal sharing of electrons between atoms, leading to a separation of electric charge and the formation of dipoles. Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons in a chemical bond, with higher electronegativity indicating a stronger pull on electrons. When atoms with differing electronegativities form a bond, the more electronegative atom attracts electrons more strongly, creating a polar bond with partial positive and negative charges. Understanding polarity and electronegativity is crucial in predicting molecular interactions, solubility, and reactivity, as they influence the physical and chemical properties of substances.