Induced dipole

Definition

An induced dipole occurs when the electron distribution in a neutral atom or molecule is distorted by an external electric field, causing a temporary dipole moment. This phenomenon is typically weak and short-lived, dependent on the presence of nearby charges.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Induced dipoles are temporary and exist only as long as the external influence persists.
2. They are weaker than permanent dipoles but can still contribute significantly to intermolecular forces.
3. Induced dipoles can occur in any atom or molecule regardless of its initial polarity.
4. London dispersion forces are a type of interaction that arise due to induced dipoles.
5. The strength of an induced dipole interaction increases with the polarizability of the molecule.

Review Questions

• What conditions lead to the formation of an induced dipole?
• How do induced dipoles contribute to intermolecular forces?
• Why are induced dipoles considered weaker than permanent dipoles?

Related terms

Polarizability: The measure of how easily the electron cloud around an atom or molecule can be distorted to form an induced dipole.

London Dispersion Forces: A type of weak intermolecular force arising from temporary fluctuations in electron density within atoms and molecules, leading to transient induced dipoles.

Permanent Dipole: $\text{A consistent separation of charge within a molecule due to differences in electronegativity between bonded atoms.}$