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  • Polarity Comparison: Water (H2O) vs. Ammonia (NH3) - Understanding Electronegativity & Molecular Geometry
    H2O (water) is more polar than NH3 (ammonia).

    Here's why:

    * Electronegativity: Oxygen (O) is more electronegative than nitrogen (N), meaning it attracts electrons more strongly. This creates a larger difference in electronegativity between the central atom and the hydrogen atoms in water compared to ammonia.

    * Molecular Geometry: Water has a bent molecular geometry due to the two lone pairs of electrons on the oxygen atom, while ammonia has a trigonal pyramidal geometry. This bent shape in water enhances the polarity by concentrating the negative charge towards the oxygen atom.

    * Dipole Moment: The larger difference in electronegativity and the bent geometry of water lead to a higher dipole moment (a measure of polarity) compared to ammonia.

    In summary:

    * Water has a larger difference in electronegativity between oxygen and hydrogen.

    * Water's bent geometry further enhances its polarity.

    * As a result, water has a higher dipole moment and is more polar than ammonia.

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