More polarizability = more london dispersion = more clumping = higher bp
Polarizability refers to ==a molecule’s tendency to develop a dipole moment when exposed to an electric field==, essentially meaning how easily its electron cloud can be distorted by an external electric field; the greater the polarizability, the more readily the electron cloud can be displaced, creating a temporary dipole moment.
Key points about polarizability:
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Concept: When an electric field is applied, the negatively charged electrons in a molecule are pulled in one direction while the positively charged nucleus is pulled in the opposite direction, leading to a temporary separation of charge and creating a dipole moment.
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Factors affecting polarizability:
- Electron cloud size: Larger electron clouds are more easily distorted, resulting in higher polarizability.
- Atomic Radius: Larger atoms generally have higher polarizability due to their larger electron clouds.
- Molecular shape: Elongated molecules tend to be more polarizable than spherical ones.