Difference between revisions of "Hydrophobic"
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'''Hydrophobic''' describes [[molecule]]s which lack any affinity or attraction to [[water]]. | '''Hydrophobic''' describes [[molecule]]s which lack any affinity or attraction to [[water]]. | ||
| − | Hydrophobic molecules tend to be | + | Hydrophobic molecules tend to be electronically neutral and [[nonpolar]]. If immersed in water, hydrophobic molecules will coalesce together to decrease the total [[surface area]] in contact with the water. |
Prominent examples of hydrophobic molecules include oils and fats, as well as any nonpolar [[organic]] molecules. Any greasy substance usually will also be hydrophobic. | Prominent examples of hydrophobic molecules include oils and fats, as well as any nonpolar [[organic]] molecules. Any greasy substance usually will also be hydrophobic. | ||
[[Category:Chemistry]] | [[Category:Chemistry]] | ||
Revision as of 18:48, March 17, 2008
Hydrophobic describes molecules which lack any affinity or attraction to water.
Hydrophobic molecules tend to be electronically neutral and nonpolar. If immersed in water, hydrophobic molecules will coalesce together to decrease the total surface area in contact with the water.
Prominent examples of hydrophobic molecules include oils and fats, as well as any nonpolar organic molecules. Any greasy substance usually will also be hydrophobic.