Dipole Moment
| Formula / Notation | μ = q × d |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Molecular dipole, electric dipole moment, μ, polarity |
What is Dipole Moment?
A measure of the polarity of a molecule, defined as the product of the charge magnitude and the distance between the positive and negative charge centers. Expressed in Debye units (D). Molecules with nonzero dipole moments are polar and have asymmetric charge distributions.
Formula & Notation
Other Names / Synonyms: Molecular dipole, electric dipole moment, μ, polarity
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
A measure of the polarity of a molecule, defined as the product of the charge magnitude and the distance between the positive and negative charge centers. Expressed in Debye units (D). Molecules with nonzero dipole moments are polar and have asymmetric charge distributions.
Dipole moments are used to assess polarity and predict solubility ("like dissolves like"), boiling points, and intermolecular interaction strengths. Microwave spectroscopy measures dipole moments. In drug design, dipole moment correlates with membrane permeability and protein binding.
High dipole moment solvents (DMSO, DMF, acetonitrile) are excellent at carrying dissolved chemicals through skin barriers, increasing dermal absorption of dissolved toxins. Special care is needed when handling toxic chemicals dissolved in polar aprotic solvents.
The formula or notation for Dipole Moment is: μ = q × d