Polar covalent bond

Definition

A covalent bond between atoms of different electronegativity in which the shared electrons are pulled unevenly, creating partial charges.

In a carbon-oxygen bond the more electronegative oxygen holds the electrons closer, giving the oxygen end a partial negative charge and the carbon end a partial positive charge. Polar bonds make molecules interact with water in distinctive ways. A polar bond does not by itself guarantee a polar molecule because geometry can cancel opposing imbalances.

Related concepts

Molecular polarity and geometry · Covalent bond · Polar molecule

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Part of The Blueprint of Water · 🧪 chemistry