Question

Distinguish between polarizability and polarity. How does each influence intermolecular forces?

Short answer

Polarity is a permanent phenomenon whereas polarizability is a temporary phenomenon. In terms of intermolecular forces, the polarity has a permanent dipole moment and polarizability has induced a dipole moment which is temporary.

Step-by-step solution

Polarity and Polarizability

Polarity can be defined as the attraction of two oppositely charged atoms which have a permanent dipole. This type of bond consists of an electronegative atom and electropositive atom which form a strong bond.

Polarizability can be defined as the attraction of two oppositely charged atoms which are induced by the polar atom in the molecule. It also works on thephenomenon called induction which is temporary in nature and the electrons cloud of an atom is influenced by the other polar atom or electric field applied.

Interaction Explanation

The intermolecular interaction happens due to polarities such as dipole-dipole interaction or hydrogen bonding. The polarity gives rise to the permanent bond due to the interaction of oppositely charged atoms. The electronegative atom attracts the electron from the electropositive atom towards itself.

The interaction happens due to the presence of the polarizability such as dispersion forces which are also called dipole-induced dipole forces. The polarizability gives rise to the temporary bond due to the presence of the polar atom and an induced atom which can be non-polar.