In a water molecule, which part is partially positive?

In a water molecule, which part is partially positive?

• A. Oxygen end
• B. None
• C. Hydrogen ends
• D. Both ends equally

Answer: (C)

Polarity and electronegativity differences determine where partial charges sit in a molecule. In water, oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen, so electrons are drawn toward the oxygen. That leaves the hydrogen atoms with a partial positive charge, while the oxygen acquires a partial negative charge. So the parts that are partially positive are the hydrogen ends. This unequal sharing and the bent geometry also give water its strong dipole moment and ability to form hydrogen bonds, which explain many of its unique properties. The oxygen end isn’t partially positive, and options suggesting no charge or equal charges would miss the polar nature of water.

Polarity and electronegativity differences determine where partial charges sit in a molecule. In water, oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen, so electrons are drawn toward the oxygen. That leaves the hydrogen atoms with a partial positive charge, while the oxygen acquires a partial negative charge. So the parts that are partially positive are the hydrogen ends. This unequal sharing and the bent geometry also give water its strong dipole moment and ability to form hydrogen bonds, which explain many of its unique properties. The oxygen end isn’t partially positive, and options suggesting no charge or equal charges would miss the polar nature of water.