Learning Objective: To learn how an ion can amplify polarity in polar molecules.
Skill Level - Intermediate
Prerequisites:
Chapter: Intermolecular Forces
Sub-topic: Ion-Induced Dipole Interactions
Author's Note: Going by the principle of 'like dissolves like,' we know it is easier for a polar ion to be soluble in polar than nonpolar solvents. However, it is observed that a polar ion amplifies interaction with a polar molecule above its permanent dipole moment. This section covers such a case of polarizability with an example.
Ion - Induced Dipole Interactions in Polar Molecules
The ions can distort the electron clouds even in polar molecules, thereby temporarily changing their dipole moments.
For example, an ion's presence distorts the electron distribution of the polar water molecule. If the ion is positive, the negatively charged end of water molecules comes closer, and the positively charged end moves away. This means the ion tends to induce an....
This phenomenon is seen when enzymes.....

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