Oxygen Molecule (O2)
Definition
An oxygen molecule consists of two oxygen atoms double-bonded together. It's nonpolar because the electrons are shared equally between both atoms.
Analogy
Imagine you and your best friend have identical strength and are playing tug-of-war with a rope (representing electrons). Since neither can pull harder than the other, you both stay in place - this is what happens in an O2 molecule!
Related terms
Nonpolar Molecule: A molecule where electron distribution is equal and there are no partial charges on any part of it.
Double Bond: A chemical bond where four bonding electrons are shared between two atoms.
Elemental Molecules: Molecules composed entirely from atoms from the same element.
"Oxygen Molecule (O2)" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.