Why is water considered a polar molecule?

• A. Because it has a bent shape and an unequal distribution of electrons.
• B. Because it has a linear shape with equal distribution of charge.
• C. Because it is composed of nonpolar covalent bonds.
• D. Because it has a symmetrical tetrahedral shape.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of polarity: A molecule is polar if it has a net dipole moment, which occurs due to an unequal distribution of electrons between atoms in a molecule.
2. Examine the molecular geometry of water: Water (H₂O) has a bent shape due to the two lone pairs of electrons on the oxygen atom, which repel the hydrogen atoms.
3. Consider the electronegativity difference: Oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen, meaning it attracts the shared electrons more strongly, creating a partial negative charge on the oxygen and a partial positive charge on the hydrogens.
4. Analyze the dipole moment: The bent shape of water means that the dipole moments do not cancel out, resulting in a net dipole moment, making water a polar molecule.
5. Compare with other options: Linear or symmetrical shapes with equal charge distribution, or nonpolar covalent bonds, would not result in a polar molecule, which is why water's bent shape and unequal electron distribution make it polar.