Induced dipole

Definition

An induced dipole is a temporary separation of charge in an otherwise neutral atom or molecule due to the presence of a nearby charge. This phenomenon occurs when an external electric field distorts the electron cloud, creating a dipole moment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Induced dipoles occur in atoms or molecules that are initially nonpolar.
2. The strength of an induced dipole depends on the polarizability of the atom or molecule and the strength of the external electric field.
3. Induced dipoles play a significant role in van der Waals forces, which are weak intermolecular forces.
4. Induced dipoles can arise due to nearby ions or permanent dipoles causing distortion in the electron cloud.
5. The magnitude of an induced dipole moment ($\mu$) is proportional to the applied electric field ($E$) and polarizability ($\alpha$), given by $\mu = \alpha E$.

Review Questions

• What is an induced dipole, and how does it form?
• How does polarizability affect the strength of an induced dipole?
• Explain how induced dipoles contribute to van der Waals forces.

Related terms

Polarizability:

A measure of how easily an electron cloud can be distorted by an external electric field, leading to an induced dipole.

Van der Waals Forces: Weak intermolecular forces that include attractions between induced dipoles, permanent dipoles, and dispersion forces.

Permanent Dipole: A separation of charge resulting from differences in electronegativity between bonded atoms, creating a constant dipole moment.