Question

Based on your knowledge of the polarity of water molecules, the solute molecule depicted here (circle of water molecules with oxygen in the middle) is most likely

A) positively charged.
B) negatively charged.
C) hydrophobic.
D) nonpolar.
E) without charge."

Answer 1

The solute molecule surrounded by water molecules with oxygen facing inwards is most likely positively charged due to the negative charge on the oxygen atoms of water, forming a sphere of hydration.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on the information provided about the polarity of water molecules, a solute molecule that is surrounded by water molecules with their oxygen atoms facing inwards is most likely positively charged.

This orientation occurs because the oxygen end of the water molecule has a slight negative charge, and the hydrogen end has a slight positive charge.

Water molecules will align themselves so that the oxygen atoms (with their slight negative charge) will be attracted to and surround a positively charged solute.

This forms what is known as a sphere of hydration or hydration shell.