Polarizability

Definition

Polarizability is the measure of how easily an electron cloud around a molecule can be distorted by an external electric field, resulting in a temporary dipole. It is an important factor in determining the strength of intermolecular forces.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Larger atoms and molecules generally have higher polarizability due to their larger electron clouds.
2. Higher polarizability leads to stronger London dispersion forces, which are a type of van der Waals force.
3. Polarizability increases with the number of electrons and the ease with which they can be displaced.
4. Molecules with higher polarizability tend to have higher boiling points due to stronger intermolecular attractions.
5. The shape of the molecule can affect its polarizability; elongated molecules are usually more polarizable than spherical ones.

Review Questions

• How does the size of an atom or molecule influence its polarizability?
• What is the relationship between polarizability and London dispersion forces?
• Why do substances with higher polarizability typically have higher boiling points?

Related terms

London Dispersion Forces: A type of van der Waals force that arises from temporary dipoles induced in atoms or molecules.

Dipole-Dipole Interactions: Intermolecular forces occurring between molecules that have permanent dipoles.

Hydrogen Bonding: A strong type of dipole-dipole interaction occurring when hydrogen is bonded to highly electronegative atoms like nitrogen, oxygen, or fluorine.