The diagram above represents a particle in aqueous solution. Which of the following statements about the particle is correct?
- Mayya Alocci
- 23 hours ago
- 1 min read
The diagram above represents a particle in aqueous solution. Which of the following statements about the particle is correct?
(A) The particle must be a cation because the negative end of each water molecule is pointed toward it.
(B) The particle must be an anion because the positive end of each water molecule is pointed toward it.
(C) The charge of the particle cannot be determined because water molecules have no net charge.
(D) The charge of the particle cannot be determined because the water molecules are arranged symmetrically and their partial charges cancel.
Solution: The question stated that there is an aqueous solution which means that a particle is dissolved in water. We can see the particle in the center is surrounded by water molecules. We can also notice that hydrogens from each water molecule are facing the particle. Water molecules are polar with oxygen having a partial negative charge (due to being more electronegative) and hydrogens having partial positive charge. Opposites attract and since hydrogens are facing the particle, this means that the particle must be an anion (negatively charged). Choice B is the correct answer.
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